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Marked by Ash
She’s a princess destined for a loveless marriage. He’s the disgraced soldier assigned to guard her. Together, they face a dangerous journey that could stop a war or start one.
Princess Isla is bound for a marriage alliance she has no desire for, with only her moody, stubborn guard to protect her. Cord just wants to finish this final punishment and reclaim his title, but it’s impossible when the princess undermines his every move.
Everything changes when they’re ambushed by magic wielders and stranded deep in enemy territory… alone, hunted, and far from home.
Forced to rely on each other to survive terrorizing beasts, ruthless bandits, and the mysterious wielders determined to hunt them down, Isla and Cord uncover secrets that could destroy more than their fragile alliance. Their enemies are relentless, but so is Cord’s resolve to clear his name, no matter the cost.
Can they fight their way home and stop a devastating war before it's too late?
Marked by Ash is the gripping first book in the Ruin of Ash fantasy series and perfect for lovers of fast-paced fantasy romance with a twist.
Buy Marked by Ash today and let the adventure begin.
Princess Isla is bound for a marriage alliance she has no desire for, with only her moody, stubborn guard to protect her. Cord just wants to finish this final punishment and reclaim his title, but it’s impossible when the princess undermines his every move.
Everything changes when they’re ambushed by magic wielders and stranded deep in enemy territory… alone, hunted, and far from home.
Forced to rely on each other to survive terrorizing beasts, ruthless bandits, and the mysterious wielders determined to hunt them down, Isla and Cord uncover secrets that could destroy more than their fragile alliance. Their enemies are relentless, but so is Cord’s resolve to clear his name, no matter the cost.
Can they fight their way home and stop a devastating war before it's too late?
Marked by Ash is the gripping first book in the Ruin of Ash fantasy series and perfect for lovers of fast-paced fantasy romance with a twist.
Buy Marked by Ash today and let the adventure begin.
439 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2024
107 people are currently reading
468 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 12, 2024
“There were other ways of dying besides your heart simply refusing to beat or your lungs no longer working. This-this felt like one of them.”
“Marked By Ash,” by Cadence Connor
I loved this book. I wasn’t so sure at the beginning because the princess is super annoying, but she got a lot better. The characters were so interesting, and the story had a lot of developments, adventure, and relationship building. There are two setting happening in the book; a princess and captain trying to get to the country where she is to be wed, and then Mira in the mines finding red stone for Devlin. The ending blew my mind, I loved it so much. 5 out of 5 stars.
-Multi POV
-Magic
-Forced Proximity
Thank you for the ARC, Booksprout.
“Marked By Ash,” by Cadence Connor
I loved this book. I wasn’t so sure at the beginning because the princess is super annoying, but she got a lot better. The characters were so interesting, and the story had a lot of developments, adventure, and relationship building. There are two setting happening in the book; a princess and captain trying to get to the country where she is to be wed, and then Mira in the mines finding red stone for Devlin. The ending blew my mind, I loved it so much. 5 out of 5 stars.
-Multi POV
-Magic
-Forced Proximity
Thank you for the ARC, Booksprout.
September 17, 2024
Nobody speak to me for the foreseeable future as I am not okay. Full review will be up later, until then -Cadence I need the next book YESTERDAY pls and thx
First, I would like to thank Cadence for allowing me to be part of her ARC team, hopefully she will consider me for her future teams as well. It's really not often that I read a book on my kindle and feel the urge to buy a physical copy as soon as I am done.
Let's talk about the bad stuff: Book two doesn't release until September 15, 2025 meaning we have just about a year to worry about what is happening to the characters until we can continue their journey.
That's it, that's the bad stuff.
Now onto the good: Cadence does such a good job at writing unlikeable characters that grow on you like a tumour. Initially, Isla will make you want to throw her in a swamp, but by the end you are biting your fingernails and hoping that she will come out on top.
The way that information is revealed to the reader is done beautifully and by the end my mind was swimming.
While I did call a couple things that are supposed to be considered twists, the way that they were delivered and the extra information given made me not care for a second that I knew it was coming.
Reading this felt like I was a sleuth trying to solve some kind of elaborately spun mystery the entire time, and I was still blindsided with the grande reveal at the end despite thinking I was right in knowing it was coming.
If you like: Writing similar to SJM and Holly Jackson
Incredible character arcs
Slow Burn
Feeling betrayed by the characters
and a sickening twist at the end
this book might be for you. Loved it. Incredible. 5stars. Give me 15 more
Thankfully this author has a backlist for me to binge in the mean time of waiting for her next release.
First, I would like to thank Cadence for allowing me to be part of her ARC team, hopefully she will consider me for her future teams as well. It's really not often that I read a book on my kindle and feel the urge to buy a physical copy as soon as I am done.
Let's talk about the bad stuff: Book two doesn't release until September 15, 2025 meaning we have just about a year to worry about what is happening to the characters until we can continue their journey.
That's it, that's the bad stuff.
Now onto the good: Cadence does such a good job at writing unlikeable characters that grow on you like a tumour. Initially, Isla will make you want to throw her in a swamp, but by the end you are biting your fingernails and hoping that she will come out on top.
The way that information is revealed to the reader is done beautifully and by the end my mind was swimming.
While I did call a couple things that are supposed to be considered twists, the way that they were delivered and the extra information given made me not care for a second that I knew it was coming.
Reading this felt like I was a sleuth trying to solve some kind of elaborately spun mystery the entire time, and I was still blindsided with the grande reveal at the end despite thinking I was right in knowing it was coming.
If you like: Writing similar to SJM and Holly Jackson
Incredible character arcs
Slow Burn
Feeling betrayed by the characters
and a sickening twist at the end
this book might be for you. Loved it. Incredible. 5stars. Give me 15 more
Thankfully this author has a backlist for me to binge in the mean time of waiting for her next release.
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October 10, 2024I received a free copy of this book thanks to booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
It was a great book, charming, if you like bodyguard tropes you should read this, with romance between the 2 mc and a great twist
It was a great book, charming, if you like bodyguard tropes you should read this, with romance between the 2 mc and a great twist
February 22, 2025
4.5/5⭐️ I was just saying how much I hate “journey through the wilderness” tropes and then this book comes along, makes me forget we’re even on a journey through the wilderness, and theeen makes me wish they could return to the wilderness when said journey is at an “end.” And wow, amen for imperfect MMCs that have very real flaws and are coping with shameful mistakes like actual humans. Oo oo ooo!! And we get a shadow mommy!! Yes queenie, slay like the big bad you are. I am super pumped about this series. It gives me Witcher meets One Dark Window vibes.
November 30, 2025
This book had so much potential. The premise of a knight escorting a princess to her betrothal and trying to survive the dangers of the wilderness is not especially unique, but the added dual storyline and the way the two narratives merged toward the end were interesting enough to keep me invested. The twist worked well, and the overall concept is what ultimately lifted my rating.
Unfortunately, the execution fell flat for me in several important areas. The character development and romantic tension were almost nonexistent. I never felt any true chemistry between the main characters, and their interactions lacked charm or meaningful connection. The male lead felt very average and underwhelming, and nothing in his arc stood out or made me care about him. I also struggled to visualize either character, since the descriptions were extremely minimal and never allowed me to form a clear picture of them. The final romantic moment between the FMC and MMC was disappointing.
The dual timelines, although intriguing in theory, disrupted the pace of the story. They eventually came together, but the structure made it hard for the romance and character development to build naturally. The multiple points of view were easy enough to follow, but the perspective from the heroine’s brother was as irritating as the character himself and added little value.
There were also some grammar mistakes throughout the book, and the writing did not feel polished. Based on writing alone I would have rated this around one or two stars, but the strength of the concept brought my overall rating to a three.
I almost stopped reading several times, and I am not sure if I will continue with the next installment. I hope that some of the writing issues are improved in the second book, because the idea behind the story truly does have promise.
Unfortunately, the execution fell flat for me in several important areas. The character development and romantic tension were almost nonexistent. I never felt any true chemistry between the main characters, and their interactions lacked charm or meaningful connection. The male lead felt very average and underwhelming, and nothing in his arc stood out or made me care about him. I also struggled to visualize either character, since the descriptions were extremely minimal and never allowed me to form a clear picture of them. The final romantic moment between the FMC and MMC was disappointing.
The dual timelines, although intriguing in theory, disrupted the pace of the story. They eventually came together, but the structure made it hard for the romance and character development to build naturally. The multiple points of view were easy enough to follow, but the perspective from the heroine’s brother was as irritating as the character himself and added little value.
There were also some grammar mistakes throughout the book, and the writing did not feel polished. Based on writing alone I would have rated this around one or two stars, but the strength of the concept brought my overall rating to a three.
I almost stopped reading several times, and I am not sure if I will continue with the next installment. I hope that some of the writing issues are improved in the second book, because the idea behind the story truly does have promise.
September 24, 2024
This novel takes readers on an exhilarating journey through a world of political intrigue, dangerous enemies, and a captivating slow-burn relationship. The story follows Cord, a disgraced royal soldier tasked with escorting a difficult princess, Isla, to a loveless marriage. Their mission turns perilous when they are ambushed and thrown into enemy territory, facing relentless threats while forced to rely on each other.
At first, Isla comes across as insufferable, making her hard to like, but her character development is masterfully done. Despite a slow start, as the story progresses, Isla’s growth becomes a highlight, transforming her from a frustrating princess into someone you find yourself rooting for. Cord, on the other hand, is a steadfast character with his own mysterious past, and their evolving dynamic adds depth to the narrative.
The dual storylines—one following Isla and Cord’s dangerous journey, the other involving Mira in the mines—are intricately woven together, building a tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
While the pacing may start slow, particularly due to Isla’s initial unlikability, the payoff is worth it. The story twists and turns in all the right places, and the blend of action, adventure, and character development makes it a must-read for fantasy fans. The writing is clever, and even when you think you have it figured out, there’s always another layer to uncover. I’ll definitely be picking up the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
At first, Isla comes across as insufferable, making her hard to like, but her character development is masterfully done. Despite a slow start, as the story progresses, Isla’s growth becomes a highlight, transforming her from a frustrating princess into someone you find yourself rooting for. Cord, on the other hand, is a steadfast character with his own mysterious past, and their evolving dynamic adds depth to the narrative.
The dual storylines—one following Isla and Cord’s dangerous journey, the other involving Mira in the mines—are intricately woven together, building a tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
While the pacing may start slow, particularly due to Isla’s initial unlikability, the payoff is worth it. The story twists and turns in all the right places, and the blend of action, adventure, and character development makes it a must-read for fantasy fans. The writing is clever, and even when you think you have it figured out, there’s always another layer to uncover. I’ll definitely be picking up the next book!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 12, 2024
Beware - the author excells at writing extremely arrogant and annoying characters, who are almost always too full of themselves to accept that they are unfair and wrong. More than once, I wanted to step into the book to slap them back to their senses. However, seeing their misplaced pride slowly dissolves is highly satisfying and allows for a good character progression.
What I liked :
- Original plot
- Double plot (with a goof twist)
- Characters and their evolution
- Funny dialogs
- Multiple views (4?)
- A sense of logic and cohesion
What I liked less :
- The Prince/brother who seemed a little bipolar. He starts full of regrets and willing to make amends and goes on to being an ass. It is maybe the only confusing/unlogical element of the book.
- There seemed to be a typo issue in one chapter. Words are not properly separated, and it makes the reading difficult (especially as a non native speaker). But it is just one chapter.
- The ending is a little abrupt. I like that there are still a lot of loose ends, but it isn't exactly a cliffhanger.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It is easy to read, the world is well described, there is a lot of adventure, a little bit of love and spice... I will read book #2 !
What I liked :
- Original plot
- Double plot (with a goof twist)
- Characters and their evolution
- Funny dialogs
- Multiple views (4?)
- A sense of logic and cohesion
What I liked less :
- The Prince/brother who seemed a little bipolar. He starts full of regrets and willing to make amends and goes on to being an ass. It is maybe the only confusing/unlogical element of the book.
- There seemed to be a typo issue in one chapter. Words are not properly separated, and it makes the reading difficult (especially as a non native speaker). But it is just one chapter.
- The ending is a little abrupt. I like that there are still a lot of loose ends, but it isn't exactly a cliffhanger.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. It is easy to read, the world is well described, there is a lot of adventure, a little bit of love and spice... I will read book #2 !
September 26, 2024
In this story, we jump from reading about two different scenarios and 2 sets of characters. There are two different factions in this world that are at war, Velotians and Muratians. Isla is a Velotian princess being escorted to a marriage that will bring an strong alliance to her kingdom. A marriage she has no say in. A soldier is assigned to her to be her guard, a disgraced guard given trying to get his honor back. The second part of the story is about Mira in the Muratian mines, digging for firestone, a mineral that helps block the powers of the wielders.
It took me forever to get into this book. The book did do better at the halfway point, and really picked up at the end, but it was the mind-blowing ending that saved the whole thing. This was a twist I never saw coming, and even though I thought these two different scenarios would merge at some point, I never expected what happens. So many answers, but so many new questions. Unfortunately, the next book doesn’t come out for a year, so the minor cliffhanger will not get answered for awhile.
It took me forever to get into this book. The book did do better at the halfway point, and really picked up at the end, but it was the mind-blowing ending that saved the whole thing. This was a twist I never saw coming, and even though I thought these two different scenarios would merge at some point, I never expected what happens. So many answers, but so many new questions. Unfortunately, the next book doesn’t come out for a year, so the minor cliffhanger will not get answered for awhile.
November 29, 2024
Marked by Ash by Cadence Conner is a novel you'll find yourself devouring in just a weekend. This enthralling tale pulls readers into a world brimming with political intrigue, dangerous foes, and a slow-burn romance that keeps you hooked until the very end.
The story centers on Cord, a disgraced royal soldier, and Isla, a headstrong princess on her way to an arranged marriage. Their journey takes a deadly turn when they are ambushed and trapped in enemy territory. Forced to rely on one another for survival, their shared struggles ignite a compelling dynamic that propels the story forward.
While the dual storylines and slow start might test your patience, they ultimately enrich the narrative, creating a perfect balance of tension and character development. Even the irritating moments between characters feel intentional, adding depth to their relationships. Marked by Ash is a rewarding read that masterfully combines drama, danger, and heart.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story centers on Cord, a disgraced royal soldier, and Isla, a headstrong princess on her way to an arranged marriage. Their journey takes a deadly turn when they are ambushed and trapped in enemy territory. Forced to rely on one another for survival, their shared struggles ignite a compelling dynamic that propels the story forward.
While the dual storylines and slow start might test your patience, they ultimately enrich the narrative, creating a perfect balance of tension and character development. Even the irritating moments between characters feel intentional, adding depth to their relationships. Marked by Ash is a rewarding read that masterfully combines drama, danger, and heart.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 3, 2024
First I would like to thank the author for writing this book. From the beginning it had my attention. The fmc drove me bonkers in the very beginning and I had a hard time liking her. The mmc was a saint for what he had to put up with. The ride this story took me on has all types of twists and turns. You have royalty, soldiers, wielders talks of gods and goddesses which I quite enjoy. There is so much action in this book and the descriptions of them I could see so clearly. You have arranged marriage I would also say a bit of forbidden romance forced proximity friendship and betrayal. This has it all. Princess Isla is bound by duty to help bring peace by her betrothal but the journey to her betrothed is treacherous. You have other important characters in here and the chapters alternate between them at first it took me a minute to adjust to it but I see why now. I totally did not expect where this lead and definitely need more asap.
February 9, 2025
Ummm, next book when?!
I’m sorry, but I started reading this book after finishing Onyx Storm because I wanted a cute, romantasy palette cleanser. I did NOT expect insane plot twists (yay River!) - I was in it for the romance at first (which served btw), but the plot made me rethink my entire reading of the first instalment.
As an author, how do you even think of that?!! I’m sitting here contemplating everything I thought I understood about the book previously. What I do know, however, is that Rian is an amazing book boyfriend and my standards just got a lot higher 🙄
Honestly - the best book I’ve read in 2025 so far!
I’m sorry, but I started reading this book after finishing Onyx Storm because I wanted a cute, romantasy palette cleanser. I did NOT expect insane plot twists (yay River!) - I was in it for the romance at first (which served btw), but the plot made me rethink my entire reading of the first instalment.
As an author, how do you even think of that?!! I’m sitting here contemplating everything I thought I understood about the book previously. What I do know, however, is that Rian is an amazing book boyfriend and my standards just got a lot higher 🙄
Honestly - the best book I’ve read in 2025 so far!
July 10, 2025
good
I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book when I first started reading it, but it did get better. I did have some confusion at the end of the book. The author was talking about two different girls and you don’t realize until the end that they’re the same person but yet there is no distinction really between the fact that you’re going back in the past and learning about her past or that you are in the present learning about this girl. I’m pretty sure I’m gonna be reading the next book in the series.
I wasn’t sure if I was going to like this book when I first started reading it, but it did get better. I did have some confusion at the end of the book. The author was talking about two different girls and you don’t realize until the end that they’re the same person but yet there is no distinction really between the fact that you’re going back in the past and learning about her past or that you are in the present learning about this girl. I’m pretty sure I’m gonna be reading the next book in the series.
September 19, 2024
A world building adventure, it keeps you guessing. The characters were easy to like, the banter between them you relatable. Multiple points of view but they all intertwine beautifully. The story flows and moves along at a great pace! I can’t wait for the second one!!.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 17, 2025
so good!
Finally a book I couldn’t put down! I DNF’d the last three books and started to feel like I was in a reading slump but this saved me! No spoilers but… I knew but I didn’t know. Exactly how I want my twists! Also maybe the first multiple POV book in a looooong time where I wasn’t cringing at the male POV. So excited to read the next one
Finally a book I couldn’t put down! I DNF’d the last three books and started to feel like I was in a reading slump but this saved me! No spoilers but… I knew but I didn’t know. Exactly how I want my twists! Also maybe the first multiple POV book in a looooong time where I wasn’t cringing at the male POV. So excited to read the next one
October 26, 2025
You Need to Read This
My God, what a book. The characters were fantastically developed, easy to understand in the beginning with perfect depth later on. The slow burn of the relationship was fantastic and felt natural.
The plot twists were the perfect level of foreshadowed and yet unpredictable. I’ve no idea how this isn’t more popular.
My God, what a book. The characters were fantastically developed, easy to understand in the beginning with perfect depth later on. The slow burn of the relationship was fantastic and felt natural.
The plot twists were the perfect level of foreshadowed and yet unpredictable. I’ve no idea how this isn’t more popular.
September 19, 2024
Fast-paced romantasy. Connor does a great job of drawing the reader in with her attention to detail and relatable characters. Drama and mystery with twists and turns to keep you guessing.
Oh my goodness! Book Two is a year out. Hoping books Three & Four won't take quite as long.
Oh my goodness! Book Two is a year out. Hoping books Three & Four won't take quite as long.
September 20, 2024
Started slow for me because I really did not like Isla, the princess, but you’re not supposed to at first. The character development is goood, just keep going. Trust that it twists and turns in all the right spots. Will certainly be reading her next one.
December 1, 2024
Ok the ending left me wanting more. I don’t know if it was just because life or what but I really struggled the first half of this book. But when I finally got into it I couldn’t put it down. Can’t wait for the next one
June 9, 2025
This book is phenomenal! The style of this book is absolutely incredible!! Two different stories at once. A great read I loved it!!! I highly recommend it!!!!
June 13, 2025
such a good one!
Such an immersive story and great surprises. Enjoyed the story lines and the characters so much. Really loved it! Can’t wait for 2nd book!
Such an immersive story and great surprises. Enjoyed the story lines and the characters so much. Really loved it! Can’t wait for 2nd book!
July 21, 2025
The twist on this book is so insane, I guarantee you won’t see it coming.
November 1, 2025
Good final twist but just kind of boring plot overall
Read
November 12, 2025DNF @33%.
I tried so hard to get into this book
I tried so hard to get into this book
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews