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Blood and Ash [Dramatized Adaptation] #2, Part 2
A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Part 2 of 2) [Dramatized Adaptation]
Is Love Stronger Than Vengeance?
A Betrayal...
Everything Poppy has ever believed in is a lie, including the man she was falling in love with. Thrust among those who see her as a symbol of a monstrous kingdom, she barely knows who she is without the veil of the Maiden. But what she does know is that nothing is as dangerous to her as him. The Dark One. The Prince of Atlantia. He wants her to fight him, and that's one order she's more than happy to obey. He may have taken her, but he will never have her.
A Choice....
Casteel Da'Neer is known by many names and many faces. His lies are as seductive as his touch. His truths as sensual as his bite. Poppy knows better than to trust him. He needs her alive, healthy, and whole to achieve his goals. But he's the only way for her to get what she wants—to find her brother Ian and see for herself if he has become a soulless Ascended. Working with Casteel instead of against him presents its own risks. He still tempts her with every breath, offering up all she's ever wanted. Casteel has plans for her. Ones that could expose her to unimaginable pleasure and unfathomable pain. Plans that will force her to look beyond everything she thought she knew about herself—about him. Plans that could bind their lives together in unexpected ways that neither kingdom is prepared for. And she's far too reckless, too hungry, to resist the temptation.
A Secret...
But unrest has grown in Atlantia as they await the return of their Prince. Whispers of war have become stronger, and Poppy is at the very heart of it all. The King wants to use her to send a message. The Descenters want her dead. The wolven are growing more unpredictable. And as her abilities to feel pain and emotion begin to grow and strengthen, the Atlantians start to fear her. Dark secrets are at play, ones steeped in the blood-drenched sins of two kingdoms that would do anything to keep the truth hidden. But when the earth begins to shake, and the skies start to bleed, it may already be too late.
Adapted from the novel and produced with a full cast of actors, immersive sound effects and cinematic music!
A Betrayal...
Everything Poppy has ever believed in is a lie, including the man she was falling in love with. Thrust among those who see her as a symbol of a monstrous kingdom, she barely knows who she is without the veil of the Maiden. But what she does know is that nothing is as dangerous to her as him. The Dark One. The Prince of Atlantia. He wants her to fight him, and that's one order she's more than happy to obey. He may have taken her, but he will never have her.
A Choice....
Casteel Da'Neer is known by many names and many faces. His lies are as seductive as his touch. His truths as sensual as his bite. Poppy knows better than to trust him. He needs her alive, healthy, and whole to achieve his goals. But he's the only way for her to get what she wants—to find her brother Ian and see for herself if he has become a soulless Ascended. Working with Casteel instead of against him presents its own risks. He still tempts her with every breath, offering up all she's ever wanted. Casteel has plans for her. Ones that could expose her to unimaginable pleasure and unfathomable pain. Plans that will force her to look beyond everything she thought she knew about herself—about him. Plans that could bind their lives together in unexpected ways that neither kingdom is prepared for. And she's far too reckless, too hungry, to resist the temptation.
A Secret...
But unrest has grown in Atlantia as they await the return of their Prince. Whispers of war have become stronger, and Poppy is at the very heart of it all. The King wants to use her to send a message. The Descenters want her dead. The wolven are growing more unpredictable. And as her abilities to feel pain and emotion begin to grow and strengthen, the Atlantians start to fear her. Dark secrets are at play, ones steeped in the blood-drenched sins of two kingdoms that would do anything to keep the truth hidden. But when the earth begins to shake, and the skies start to bleed, it may already be too late.
Adapted from the novel and produced with a full cast of actors, immersive sound effects and cinematic music!
9 pages, Audiobook
Published March 7, 2025
70 people are currently reading
414 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer L. Armentrout
161 books159k followersHey Guys! Please note: I don't send out ARCs for review. If you're interested in reviewing a book of mine before release date, please contact the appropriate publisher. I also do NOT check my Goodreads email.
To email me, please use the below addy.
jenniferlarmentrout@live.com
# 1 New York Times and # 1 International Bestselling author Jennifer lives in Charles Town, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. she spends her time reading, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell Loki. In early 2015, Jennifer was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a group of rare genetic disorders that involve a breakdown and death of cells in the retina, eventually resulting in loss of vision, among other complications. Due to this diagnosis, educating people on the varying degrees of blindness has become of passion of hers, right alongside writing, which she plans to do as long as she can.
Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Tor, HarperCollins Avon and William Morrow, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen. Her Wicked Series has been optioned by PassionFlix. Jennifer has won numerous awards, including the 2013 Reviewers Choice Award for Wait for You, the 2015 Editor’s Pick for Fall With Me, and the 2014/2015 Moerser-Jugendbuch- Jury award for Obsidian. Her young adult romantic suspense novel DON’T LOOK BACK was a 2014 nominated Best in Young Adult Fiction by YALSA. Her adult romantic suspense novel TILL DEATH was a Amazon Editor’s Pick and iBook Book of the Month. Her young adult contemporary THE PROBLEM WITH FOREVER is a 2017 RITA Award Winner in Young Adult Fiction. She also writes Adult and New Adult contemporary and paranormal romance under the name J. Lynn. She is published by Entangled Brazen and HarperCollins.
She is the owner of ApollyCon and The Origin Event, the successful annual events that features over hundred bestselling authors in Young Adult, New Adult, and Adult Fiction, panels, parties, and more.
To email me, please use the below addy.
jenniferlarmentrout@live.com
# 1 New York Times and # 1 International Bestselling author Jennifer lives in Charles Town, West Virginia. All the rumors you’ve heard about her state aren’t true. When she’s not hard at work writing. she spends her time reading, watching really bad zombie movies, pretending to write, hanging out with her husband and her Jack Russell Loki. In early 2015, Jennifer was diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, a group of rare genetic disorders that involve a breakdown and death of cells in the retina, eventually resulting in loss of vision, among other complications. Due to this diagnosis, educating people on the varying degrees of blindness has become of passion of hers, right alongside writing, which she plans to do as long as she can.
Her dreams of becoming an author started in algebra class, where she spent most of her time writing short stories….which explains her dismal grades in math. Jennifer writes young adult paranormal, science fiction, fantasy, and contemporary romance. She is published with Tor, HarperCollins Avon and William Morrow, Entangled Teen and Brazen, Disney/Hyperion and Harlequin Teen. Her Wicked Series has been optioned by PassionFlix. Jennifer has won numerous awards, including the 2013 Reviewers Choice Award for Wait for You, the 2015 Editor’s Pick for Fall With Me, and the 2014/2015 Moerser-Jugendbuch- Jury award for Obsidian. Her young adult romantic suspense novel DON’T LOOK BACK was a 2014 nominated Best in Young Adult Fiction by YALSA. Her adult romantic suspense novel TILL DEATH was a Amazon Editor’s Pick and iBook Book of the Month. Her young adult contemporary THE PROBLEM WITH FOREVER is a 2017 RITA Award Winner in Young Adult Fiction. She also writes Adult and New Adult contemporary and paranormal romance under the name J. Lynn. She is published by Entangled Brazen and HarperCollins.
She is the owner of ApollyCon and The Origin Event, the successful annual events that features over hundred bestselling authors in Young Adult, New Adult, and Adult Fiction, panels, parties, and more.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
August 21, 2025
Oh. My. God. 😍 This book is even better than the first one.
✅ Strong main character
✅ Awesome love interest
✅ Amazing secondary characters
✅ Hate/love and a lot of angst
✅ Sexual tension and some sexy moments
✅ Funny and witty banter
✅ Action
✅ Pace and plot
❗️❗️ Cliffhanger
❗️❗️ Trigger warnings: violence, murder, and mention of cannibalism
_______________________
Fourth read/listen: I think I love Kieran even more after listening to the dramatized adaptation. 😍
_______________________
**This is a review for both parts of the dramatized adaptation.
Long review ahead, #SorryNotSorry.
A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire picks up right where From Blood and Ash ends. Poppy and Cas have a few relationship issues to work out in this book and even though the steamy scenes and the tension between them are delightful to read, I was so desperate for them to realize that the other loved them back. It created a weird mix of excitement and frustration, but it made the book so enjoyable. Their game of pretending, their conversations, and Cas's inappropriate behavior delighted me, and their intensity and protectiveness made me feel weak in the knees a few times. I love them so much (I would let Casteel do whatever he wants to me, and I would thank him for it).
So many people told me that the second book was even better than the first one, and I was skeptical because I really enjoyed the first book, but they were right. The action, the complicated emotions, the angst, the plot twists... I can't find the words to explain how amazing this book is. It is the perfect mix of powerful main characters, great secondary characters (Kieran! 😍), funny banter, action scenes, political intrigue, and a slow-burning (and intense) love/hate relationship with a lot of sexual tension and steamy moments.
Honestly, for a book that’s over 600 pages, the plot does not progress that much, but I don’t care. At all. Because the interactions between the characters are so funny, cute, angsty, and heartwarming at the same time. Because Poppy showed everyone once again that she is a strong badass fighter and that she is not a meek and demure maiden waiting to be saved. Because Kieran is an awesome secondary character, and I enjoyed every single interaction he had with Poppy. Because there is action and fighting, and because this book also managed to surprise me.
Poppy just realized that all she believed to be true about her kingdom, about the Atlantians, and about Hawke are lies, and she now has to come to terms with this stinging betrayal. She is hurt, confused, and angry (and stabby), and I loved how she remained strong through all of it and also how she held onto her anger. She did not forgive Cas after 2 hours just because he apologized and showed his dimple. Poppy is brave and fearless, and makes bad decisions because of that at times, and her obsession with sharp objects and stabbing has become a running gag in the book, but it really made me laugh.
Cas is trying to find a way to protect Poppy, and what better way to do it than keeping her at his side as his soon-to-be wife? The relationship between Cas and Poppy becomes more intense and even more complicated the longer they spend together. There is action, fights (verbal and physical), and sexy moments, and I honestly couldn't put the book down. I. Love. Casteel. Cas is as amazingly awesome as he was in the first book. He is funny, sexy, caring, intoxicating, and so many more adjectives that I can't come up with at the moment (I might be a little obsessed).
That. 🖤
That one sentence shows how proud he is of the fact that she can defend herself, doesn't think she needs him to save her or protect her, and how he likes her fierce and violent side. 🖤
One thing that I truly adored in this book is the angst. I love it when there is angst in a relationship before the characters get their HEA (and I really hope they will get it). Poppy is slowly realizing that she fell in love with Hawke and with Cas, even though she tried to hate him. She is also convinced that he doesn’t truly care about her; he just wants her to be in good health so he can use her to get his brother back. So here she is, stuck in this place with the man she loves, and she “knows” he does not love her back, but at the same time, he is sweet and charming and sexy, so it hurts her even more because she falls in love a little more every day. Obviously, Cas is in love with her, but she’s oblivious to it, and he is also making a good job of hiding it behind his “Dark One” mask and careless smiles. The last 25% was so full of conflicted feelings and angst, and I was drinking up the drama!
The sexual tension between Poppy and Casteel is *chef’s kiss*. They have 0 skills when it comes to clearly communicating with each other, but when it comes to hot and steamy moments charged with sexual tension, lust, and desire, they are 10/10. I have to admit that the miscommunication between them got a little annoying after a while. I love angst, but I am not the biggest fan of the miscommunication trope, and at one point, I just wanted to slap Poppy and tell her to sit down and have a real conversation with Cas about it.
Kieran is one of my favorite secondary characters ever. His deep bond with Casteel is amazing and his shy and budding friendship with Poppy (even though he tries to hide it underneath aggravation and annoyance) makes me want to see more of him in the next book (I also have to say that that one scene with Cas, Poppy, and Kieran made me realize that I would not be against some sexy moments between the three of them 🔥🔥🔥). Delano is also a secondary character that I grew to like very much. He is less present in the book, but he made me smile too with his little comments about Poppy and Casteel, and he is one of the only Wolven who respected Poppy from the start and gave her a chance instead of immediately disliking her for her association with the Ascended.
I love their snark and witty banter. Especially now that there is anger and angst mixed into it. The running gag of Poppy being violent and stabbing everyone was also funny, and I adored how Kieran mastered the art of being sarcastic while appearing bored and emotionless. His interactions with Poppy always made me smile, either because he was so obviously exasperated by her (but still like her way down deep inside) or because he was defending Cas and he was being so loyal to him.
A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire is full of action, violence, betrayal, twists and turns, and horrible truths, but it is also filled with fierce love and friendship and perfect and delightfully intense sexy moments. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions. I laughed out loud many times, I was at the edge of my seat for most of the book, and now that it is over, I feel like crying because the final revelation with the cliffhanger ending is killing me.
On a side note, I have to say that I do not trust Alastir, I am sure he was the man talking to Poppy's father the night they were attacked... And even if he's not, I don't trust him and I don't like him.
1. From Blood and Ash (Part 1 of 2) [Dramatized Adaptation] ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
1. From Blood and Ash (Part 2 of 2) [Dramatized Adaptation] ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Part 1 of 2) [Dramatized Adaptation] ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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✅ Strong main character
✅ Awesome love interest
✅ Amazing secondary characters
✅ Hate/love and a lot of angst
✅ Sexual tension and some sexy moments
✅ Funny and witty banter
✅ Action
✅ Pace and plot
❗️❗️ Cliffhanger
❗️❗️ Trigger warnings: violence, murder, and mention of cannibalism
_______________________
Fourth read/listen: I think I love Kieran even more after listening to the dramatized adaptation. 😍
_______________________
**This is a review for both parts of the dramatized adaptation.
Long review ahead, #SorryNotSorry.
"I am born of the first kingdom." Casteel's voice carried like the wind and snow, stroking over the knights, who all turned, one by one, to look in his direction. "Created from the blood and ash of all those who fell before me. I have risen to take back what is mine. I'm who you call the Dark One," he said, and chills danced across my skin. "Yes, I have the Maiden, and I'm not giving her back."
A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire picks up right where From Blood and Ash ends. Poppy and Cas have a few relationship issues to work out in this book and even though the steamy scenes and the tension between them are delightful to read, I was so desperate for them to realize that the other loved them back. It created a weird mix of excitement and frustration, but it made the book so enjoyable. Their game of pretending, their conversations, and Cas's inappropriate behavior delighted me, and their intensity and protectiveness made me feel weak in the knees a few times. I love them so much (I would let Casteel do whatever he wants to me, and I would thank him for it).
"All you have is me. Let me be enough." ❤️
So many people told me that the second book was even better than the first one, and I was skeptical because I really enjoyed the first book, but they were right. The action, the complicated emotions, the angst, the plot twists... I can't find the words to explain how amazing this book is. It is the perfect mix of powerful main characters, great secondary characters (Kieran! 😍), funny banter, action scenes, political intrigue, and a slow-burning (and intense) love/hate relationship with a lot of sexual tension and steamy moments.
Honestly, for a book that’s over 600 pages, the plot does not progress that much, but I don’t care. At all. Because the interactions between the characters are so funny, cute, angsty, and heartwarming at the same time. Because Poppy showed everyone once again that she is a strong badass fighter and that she is not a meek and demure maiden waiting to be saved. Because Kieran is an awesome secondary character, and I enjoyed every single interaction he had with Poppy. Because there is action and fighting, and because this book also managed to surprise me.
“He was the first thing I’d ever truly chosen for myself.
I chose him because he made me feel like I was something other than the Maiden, and he saw me when no one else ever really did. He made me feel alive. He valued me for who I am and didn’t try to control me.”
Poppy just realized that all she believed to be true about her kingdom, about the Atlantians, and about Hawke are lies, and she now has to come to terms with this stinging betrayal. She is hurt, confused, and angry (and stabby), and I loved how she remained strong through all of it and also how she held onto her anger. She did not forgive Cas after 2 hours just because he apologized and showed his dimple. Poppy is brave and fearless, and makes bad decisions because of that at times, and her obsession with sharp objects and stabbing has become a running gag in the book, but it really made me laugh.
"He has done things some might find unforgivable. Things that would haunt your sleep and leave you with nightmares long after you wake. He may hate being called the Dark One, but he has earned that name.’’ Kieran’s pale eyes meet mine as a shiver curled its way down my spine. "But he’s the one thing in all the kingdoms that you, and only you, never have to fear."
Cas is trying to find a way to protect Poppy, and what better way to do it than keeping her at his side as his soon-to-be wife? The relationship between Cas and Poppy becomes more intense and even more complicated the longer they spend together. There is action, fights (verbal and physical), and sexy moments, and I honestly couldn't put the book down. I. Love. Casteel. Cas is as amazingly awesome as he was in the first book. He is funny, sexy, caring, intoxicating, and so many more adjectives that I can't come up with at the moment (I might be a little obsessed).
“Make me feel incompetent and kill more than me, Princess.”
That. 🖤
That one sentence shows how proud he is of the fact that she can defend herself, doesn't think she needs him to save her or protect her, and how he likes her fierce and violent side. 🖤
We were only pretending.
But this felt so very real.
"Only on one condition," I said.
"You have a condition now?"
I nodded, my heart thundering. "I don't want to pretend," I whispered. "I'm Poppy and you're Casteel, and this is real. Can you agree to that?"
His eyes drifted shut for a heartbeat, all the striking lines of his face were tense. "Always," he whispered. "Yes."
One thing that I truly adored in this book is the angst. I love it when there is angst in a relationship before the characters get their HEA (and I really hope they will get it). Poppy is slowly realizing that she fell in love with Hawke and with Cas, even though she tried to hate him. She is also convinced that he doesn’t truly care about her; he just wants her to be in good health so he can use her to get his brother back. So here she is, stuck in this place with the man she loves, and she “knows” he does not love her back, but at the same time, he is sweet and charming and sexy, so it hurts her even more because she falls in love a little more every day. Obviously, Cas is in love with her, but she’s oblivious to it, and he is also making a good job of hiding it behind his “Dark One” mask and careless smiles. The last 25% was so full of conflicted feelings and angst, and I was drinking up the drama!
"I wasn't rocking that much!" I denied, wiggling to put space between us.
"I wouldn't advise that,' he said, voice gruff as his arm tightened.
"Why?"
"Squirm a few more inches lower, and I'm sure you'll find out."
The sexual tension between Poppy and Casteel is *chef’s kiss*. They have 0 skills when it comes to clearly communicating with each other, but when it comes to hot and steamy moments charged with sexual tension, lust, and desire, they are 10/10. I have to admit that the miscommunication between them got a little annoying after a while. I love angst, but I am not the biggest fan of the miscommunication trope, and at one point, I just wanted to slap Poppy and tell her to sit down and have a real conversation with Cas about it.
Wanting to know how these people knew what Kieran and Casteel were, I twisted at the waist.
“You’re naked!”
“I am,” Kieran replied.
And he was.
Kieran is one of my favorite secondary characters ever. His deep bond with Casteel is amazing and his shy and budding friendship with Poppy (even though he tries to hide it underneath aggravation and annoyance) makes me want to see more of him in the next book (I also have to say that that one scene with Cas, Poppy, and Kieran made me realize that I would not be against some sexy moments between the three of them 🔥🔥🔥). Delano is also a secondary character that I grew to like very much. He is less present in the book, but he made me smile too with his little comments about Poppy and Casteel, and he is one of the only Wolven who respected Poppy from the start and gave her a chance instead of immediately disliking her for her association with the Ascended.
"Please don't fight atop the horse," Delano called out. "None of us wish to watch Setti trample either of you."
"Speak for yourself," came Kieran's droll voice.
Casteel straightened "Don't worry. Neither of us will fall. It was just a love tap."
"That did not look like a love tap," Naill commented.
"That's because it was a very passionate one," Casteel replied.
"You're about to get a love tap to your face."
"It turns me on when you're armed with something sharp."
"There is something entirely wrong with you."
He came around to my front. "But you like what's wrong with me."
I love their snark and witty banter. Especially now that there is anger and angst mixed into it. The running gag of Poppy being violent and stabbing everyone was also funny, and I adored how Kieran mastered the art of being sarcastic while appearing bored and emotionless. His interactions with Poppy always made me smile, either because he was so obviously exasperated by her (but still like her way down deep inside) or because he was defending Cas and he was being so loyal to him.
A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire is full of action, violence, betrayal, twists and turns, and horrible truths, but it is also filled with fierce love and friendship and perfect and delightfully intense sexy moments. This book is a rollercoaster of emotions. I laughed out loud many times, I was at the edge of my seat for most of the book, and now that it is over, I feel like crying because the final revelation with the cliffhanger ending is killing me.
On a side note, I have to say that I do not trust Alastir, I am sure he was the man talking to Poppy's father the night they were attacked... And even if he's not, I don't trust him and I don't like him.
1. From Blood and Ash (Part 1 of 2) [Dramatized Adaptation] ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
1. From Blood and Ash (Part 2 of 2) [Dramatized Adaptation] ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire (Part 1 of 2) [Dramatized Adaptation] ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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March 11, 2025
Those drinking blood sounds were awkward as hell…
May 20, 2025
Graphic audio - reread ⚔️
March 28, 2025
OH that cliffy
It had been years since I read this, and man, that cliffy got me good!
I still got emotional in the same parts I originally cried in 😭.
And the diiiiirtiness? It still eats 😮💨 (I can't believe I'm using "slang,” but that word fits SO well here). I had to turn down the volume 🔥 bahahahaha cause it's just that good 🥵.
The actors did an amazing job conveying their feelings ❤️. I remember wanting to be angry at Casteel 😑, but you can't help but sympathize with him and be understanding of his (and his people's) plight 😅.
The cliffhanger is INSANE 🫠... gah... We really need the rest of the series to be done.
Here's the review of the entire book
It had been years since I read this, and man, that cliffy got me good!
I still got emotional in the same parts I originally cried in 😭.
And the diiiiirtiness? It still eats 😮💨 (I can't believe I'm using "slang,” but that word fits SO well here). I had to turn down the volume 🔥 bahahahaha cause it's just that good 🥵.
The actors did an amazing job conveying their feelings ❤️. I remember wanting to be angry at Casteel 😑, but you can't help but sympathize with him and be understanding of his (and his people's) plight 😅.
The cliffhanger is INSANE 🫠... gah... We really need the rest of the series to be done.
Here's the review of the entire book
May 27, 2025
listening to this series as it comes out on GA after reading both series in its entirety, is refreshing!
Great job on the casting, and the Voice Acting yet again.
Great job on the casting, and the Voice Acting yet again.
September 23, 2025
Ummmm what?? These are so good. The graphic audio and the story has had me hooked. I’ve blown through this whole book in like 4 days. Such a good series!
June 17, 2025
I realized what I don't like about these books is the unnecessary romance and smut that does not contribute to the plot. It's a lot of that for no reason. There came a point towards the end of this part where it was just plot which made things better. I'd say this part of the series was probably the best so far. It seems like the next part should be good. But overall, just slow for no reason.
July 19, 2025
This one was much heavier on the character interactions. I’m excited to see how the plot develops!
April 9, 2025
4.5 stars
April 29, 2025
“The heartache that comes with loving someone is worth it.” -Kieran
LOVE THIS STORY!! I NEED BOOK 3 NOW!!
LOVE THIS STORY!! I NEED BOOK 3 NOW!!
April 12, 2025
The plot was good, I’m enjoying the overall story but… two whole books and I still am so annoyed by the main character I might die of cringe. There’s alot of repetitive writing and phrasing that goes beyond the territory of cute into lazy and eye-rolling exasperation. How do you keep reading when you low key hate the main character ? 😂 I guess because the story is good and you just keep hoping she gets it together.
I did almost die during the kissing and spicy scenes, I was cringing so hard. I can handle spice scenes in graphic audio — ACOTAR series and Ravenhood were well done! But this needed a lottttt more finesse. The dialogue between Cas and Poppy were cringe the whole book.
“Like oh my god I cant believe he likes ME. The maiden!! He likes me and im soo ugly! Wow he keeps saying he likes me and im pretty but I don’t believe him so it surprised me every tiiiimmme. This Stockholm syndrome is seriously the besttt”
But will I read the next one hoping it gets better?
Yes. Yes I will.
Also— And before you say to switch to the reg audiobook of the series — no. That was way worse.
Also also - please never do the creepy deep voice on CAs ever again
Also also also - never do the child voice ever again. That was nightmare fuel.
Quadruple also - In a carriage during a battle next to a dead body. For real?
2.5 stars.
I did almost die during the kissing and spicy scenes, I was cringing so hard. I can handle spice scenes in graphic audio — ACOTAR series and Ravenhood were well done! But this needed a lottttt more finesse. The dialogue between Cas and Poppy were cringe the whole book.
“Like oh my god I cant believe he likes ME. The maiden!! He likes me and im soo ugly! Wow he keeps saying he likes me and im pretty but I don’t believe him so it surprised me every tiiiimmme. This Stockholm syndrome is seriously the besttt”
But will I read the next one hoping it gets better?
Yes. Yes I will.
Also— And before you say to switch to the reg audiobook of the series — no. That was way worse.
Also also - please never do the creepy deep voice on CAs ever again
Also also also - never do the child voice ever again. That was nightmare fuel.
Quadruple also - In a carriage during a battle next to a dead body. For real?
2.5 stars.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 5, 2025
Jennifer L. Armentrout does it again. A Kingdom of Flesh makes your brain scream, “just one more chapter” over and over again until it's "I need the next book now!"
The tension? Immaculate. The spice? A slow burn with claws. The emotional beats? Unforgiving and perfect.
This book delivers layers of lore, expanding the world with gods, secrets, betrayals, and a relentless unraveling of everything you thought you knew from From Blood and Ash. Every chapter pulls you deeper into the war brewing across kingdoms, and Armentrout’s ability to make every twist feel both inevitable and shocking is pure talent.
The tension? Immaculate. The spice? A slow burn with claws. The emotional beats? Unforgiving and perfect.
This book delivers layers of lore, expanding the world with gods, secrets, betrayals, and a relentless unraveling of everything you thought you knew from From Blood and Ash. Every chapter pulls you deeper into the war brewing across kingdoms, and Armentrout’s ability to make every twist feel both inevitable and shocking is pure talent.
March 10, 2025
Re”reading” these books with the graphic audio is amazing! I love the voices for the characters, I think it’s absolutely beautiful. I don’t love the background music for some of the spice scenes, but overall I really love the audio. It just makes me fall in love with the series all over again and in a new light.
April 23, 2025
Damn that is a good cliffhanger. I didn't realize how long it had been since I last read these books, and while I rmmbrd I loved them, listening to the graphic audio is a delightful reminder just how much. Now the only question is whether I can wait for the book 3 graphic audios or not!
March 14, 2025
the graphic audio was great except for some of the sound effects in the background. they were a little cringe at times🫣
March 16, 2025
Every time I read or listen to this book it gives me all the feels. I can’t wait for the next graphic audio in this series.
April 5, 2025
4.5⭐️
April 10, 2025
bruh, why are we getting freaky next to a corpse?
April 13, 2025
It's gettin' goooood.
April 15, 2025
I really liked this series when I first read it years ago. But I found the whole asking questions thing annoying
May 13, 2025
"Hawke what have you brought to us"! ALL HAIL THE MF QUEEN!!! I know that's right QUEEN!! Now all I need to know is that brother of hers is shadyyyy! She a bad ass without even knowing.
June 1, 2025
Hätte nicht gedacht, dass die Bücher sogar noch etwas besser werden!
Immer mehr formt sich die fantastische Welt und ihre Hintergrundgeschichte heraus, die Charaktere wachsen und bekommen mehr Dimension. Das ganze gepaart mit Action, Humor und sexy Spannungen macht - insbesondere in dieser englischen Hörspielversion einfach nur Spaß. Perfekt, um sich in der Herberge auf dem Jakobsweg vom Schnarchen anderer Pilger abzulenken :D
Immer mehr formt sich die fantastische Welt und ihre Hintergrundgeschichte heraus, die Charaktere wachsen und bekommen mehr Dimension. Das ganze gepaart mit Action, Humor und sexy Spannungen macht - insbesondere in dieser englischen Hörspielversion einfach nur Spaß. Perfekt, um sich in der Herberge auf dem Jakobsweg vom Schnarchen anderer Pilger abzulenken :D
September 13, 2025
AHHH!!! So freaking good. Onto the next one because that ending was insane!
June 4, 2025
Maybe 4.5, I just love this series so far ❤️
June 20, 2025
3.5… this one had areas that were pretty slow with to many inner monologs or conversations that were all centered around the same things. Became annoying at times. I hope this isn’t going to be how things continue going forward. I had to speed narration to 125 just to keep it moving. Had some suspense and that was good but really hoping we don’t have to keep going over what already happened and how Castille (Hawke) lied previously or how she tried to kill him. 🙄.. I also don’t like how she threatens to stab him every time she gets mad. It’s not funny. It’s an immature way of coping with anger. And becoming redundant.
June 17, 2025
A Kingdom Of Flesh and Fire (Book 2, Blood and Ash) - Jennifer L. Armentrout
This book has been on my TBR for longer than what it should have been and luckily my hubby brought me the Graphic Audio version of this book and I dived straight in.
Jennifer L. Armentrout is an American author who loves reading and writing and watching bad zombie movies. She has also been diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder known as retinitis pigmentosa which involves the breakdown and death of cells in the retina. Over time this will result in loss of vision. Consequently, Jennifer is extremely passionate about education people on the varying degrees of blindness, which as well as writing, she plans to do for as long as she is able.
Poppy thought she knew Hawke, knew that man she was starting to love. He lied to her, hurt her in a way she never knew possible.
Hawke and the Dark One, Prince Casteel of Atlantia – are one in the same. All this time, he lied about who he was, what he wanted – did he lie about them, about what they shared?
Poppy was determined not to trust him, not to let him touch her like that ever again. He has now taken her, and is determined to bring her back to Atlantia and use her to bargain for the release of his brother.
Casteel is determined to keep her alive, keep her healthy so he can retrieve his brother and try to keep Atlantis whole – however as we all know the best laid plans often go awry. The more they are together the harder it is for Poppy, for Casteel – to fight against what is growing between them.
Poppy tries to fight it, to fight Casteel she really does – even going to so far as stabbing Casteel and often throwing daggers at him.
But it is all so exhausting, what she knew, what she thought she knew, about the Ascended, about Casteel even about Atlantia – was not at all what she thought. The Ascended have been lying to everyone, hiding the truth from them and Casteel, the people of Atlantia are fighting to free them all from the Ascended’s rule.
Then Casteel makes Poppy an offer an offer that is tempting but stupidly dangerous – marry him, marry Casteel free his brother and hers then she can go – she will be free to live her life with her brother wherever she may choose, he will release her once it is all over.
So they pretend, they pretend to be in love yet the Descender’s and the Wolven – Casteel's people, her people now too – want to see her dead and come very close to ending her. Causing Casteel to go on a rampage and make it very clear whilst she was once the Maiden a symbol of the Ascended that is no more – she is his bride and not to be touched.
As much as Poppy wants this plan to work, needs this plan to work she is not sure she can go through with it – she truly loves Casteel despite it all. Can she have this love and achieve her hopes?
More secrets slowly start to make themselves known and war is coming fast for them all.
“A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire” is such an explosive story with lots of twists and surprises, filled with suspense. There is a lot of action in this fast-paced story which at times was very in your face and explosive – I absolutely devoured it. Poppy’s character seemed to really grow and mature during this story which was enjoyable to see – she was finally free and seemed to truly find herself. Hawke, Casteel – however you would like to know him by, is very much like Damon Salvatore to me, appears to be a bad guy, might make some questionable decisions but deep down he tries to do good and loves fiercely. I do hope in the next book we see the end of the Ascended and Poppy and Casteel are able to be happy and enjoy life – but seeing how many books in the series I doubt we will see an end anytime soon.
This book has been on my TBR for longer than what it should have been and luckily my hubby brought me the Graphic Audio version of this book and I dived straight in.
Jennifer L. Armentrout is an American author who loves reading and writing and watching bad zombie movies. She has also been diagnosed with a rare genetic disorder known as retinitis pigmentosa which involves the breakdown and death of cells in the retina. Over time this will result in loss of vision. Consequently, Jennifer is extremely passionate about education people on the varying degrees of blindness, which as well as writing, she plans to do for as long as she is able.
Poppy thought she knew Hawke, knew that man she was starting to love. He lied to her, hurt her in a way she never knew possible.
Hawke and the Dark One, Prince Casteel of Atlantia – are one in the same. All this time, he lied about who he was, what he wanted – did he lie about them, about what they shared?
Poppy was determined not to trust him, not to let him touch her like that ever again. He has now taken her, and is determined to bring her back to Atlantia and use her to bargain for the release of his brother.
Casteel is determined to keep her alive, keep her healthy so he can retrieve his brother and try to keep Atlantis whole – however as we all know the best laid plans often go awry. The more they are together the harder it is for Poppy, for Casteel – to fight against what is growing between them.
Poppy tries to fight it, to fight Casteel she really does – even going to so far as stabbing Casteel and often throwing daggers at him.
But it is all so exhausting, what she knew, what she thought she knew, about the Ascended, about Casteel even about Atlantia – was not at all what she thought. The Ascended have been lying to everyone, hiding the truth from them and Casteel, the people of Atlantia are fighting to free them all from the Ascended’s rule.
Then Casteel makes Poppy an offer an offer that is tempting but stupidly dangerous – marry him, marry Casteel free his brother and hers then she can go – she will be free to live her life with her brother wherever she may choose, he will release her once it is all over.
So they pretend, they pretend to be in love yet the Descender’s and the Wolven – Casteel's people, her people now too – want to see her dead and come very close to ending her. Causing Casteel to go on a rampage and make it very clear whilst she was once the Maiden a symbol of the Ascended that is no more – she is his bride and not to be touched.
As much as Poppy wants this plan to work, needs this plan to work she is not sure she can go through with it – she truly loves Casteel despite it all. Can she have this love and achieve her hopes?
More secrets slowly start to make themselves known and war is coming fast for them all.
“A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire” is such an explosive story with lots of twists and surprises, filled with suspense. There is a lot of action in this fast-paced story which at times was very in your face and explosive – I absolutely devoured it. Poppy’s character seemed to really grow and mature during this story which was enjoyable to see – she was finally free and seemed to truly find herself. Hawke, Casteel – however you would like to know him by, is very much like Damon Salvatore to me, appears to be a bad guy, might make some questionable decisions but deep down he tries to do good and loves fiercely. I do hope in the next book we see the end of the Ascended and Poppy and Casteel are able to be happy and enjoy life – but seeing how many books in the series I doubt we will see an end anytime soon.
May 23, 2025
So it seems that, once again, the second half of the second book in a romantasy series is where things really start to get interesting. More action, more feelings, more characterisation and, of course, more spice. I finally felt like the series was starting to give me what I've been hoping for, but at the same time it's still missing something to really launch it into the stratosphere.
Once again, I feel like Casteel really carries this book. I can see the logic in every action he takes, the feeling behind every decision and the meaning behind every word he speaks. Which I find a little odd considering the story is being told from Poppy's POV and clearly, for quite a chunk of this she still doesn't! It has taken me until this book to recognise that, due to her sheltered upbringing, certain cues that would be evident to a worldly person do pass her by and so I can, to some extent, finally accept her confusion, reticence to accept Casteel as telling the truth and general stubbornness as being down to this lack of awareness. But it's still frustrating! Especially when you have a promise of being 'real' and she's still being obtuse about what that might actually mean for him.
However, the moments of proper talking and intimacy between Cas and Poppy are beautifully done, and give me all the feels I could hope for. While I do love my worldbuilding and for a story to be set on a solid foundation of plot, action and character, it's these moments that make or break it for me. As I said in my review of part one, it's often the quieter moments like these heartfelt conversations and relationship building that make a book my favourite in a series once I've had a chance to digest. So I guess we'll see when I finish the series. But everything from the horseriding lessons to the the cavern to the carriage just has me rooting for them as a pair, even if I'm not so keen on Poppy as an individual.
I'm certainly intrigued by the development in Poppy's abilities and what they could signify. The slow build of these changes has been very well woven into the story, and the more dramatic shifts leave a tantalising hint of what might be to come. But I'm equally at a bit of a loss due to the sheer number of seemingly conflicting theories contained within the narrative. I get that the author is laying the foundations of a mystery that I'm sure will be resolved as the series progresses, but there's almost too many ideas being thrown at the reader for me to keep track!
I also get the feeling my gut reaction about some of the secondary characters is going to prove right, especially given the events of the last few chapters. While that would mean that the writing has done it's job really well in giving the reader an uncomfortable feeling despite the seemingly positive roles played by the characters in question, it would almost be a disappointment that any such change doesn't come as a complete surprise. Again, I will just have to keep reading and find out!
I've heard good things about book 3, and I'm definitely invested enough to continue with the series. Just like Poppy, I have a lot of questions! But I am going to wait until both halves of the GA are out to pick it up, so for now, it's to be continued...
Once again, I feel like Casteel really carries this book. I can see the logic in every action he takes, the feeling behind every decision and the meaning behind every word he speaks. Which I find a little odd considering the story is being told from Poppy's POV and clearly, for quite a chunk of this she still doesn't! It has taken me until this book to recognise that, due to her sheltered upbringing, certain cues that would be evident to a worldly person do pass her by and so I can, to some extent, finally accept her confusion, reticence to accept Casteel as telling the truth and general stubbornness as being down to this lack of awareness. But it's still frustrating! Especially when you have a promise of being 'real' and she's still being obtuse about what that might actually mean for him.
However, the moments of proper talking and intimacy between Cas and Poppy are beautifully done, and give me all the feels I could hope for. While I do love my worldbuilding and for a story to be set on a solid foundation of plot, action and character, it's these moments that make or break it for me. As I said in my review of part one, it's often the quieter moments like these heartfelt conversations and relationship building that make a book my favourite in a series once I've had a chance to digest. So I guess we'll see when I finish the series. But everything from the horseriding lessons to the the cavern to the carriage just has me rooting for them as a pair, even if I'm not so keen on Poppy as an individual.
I'm certainly intrigued by the development in Poppy's abilities and what they could signify. The slow build of these changes has been very well woven into the story, and the more dramatic shifts leave a tantalising hint of what might be to come. But I'm equally at a bit of a loss due to the sheer number of seemingly conflicting theories contained within the narrative. I get that the author is laying the foundations of a mystery that I'm sure will be resolved as the series progresses, but there's almost too many ideas being thrown at the reader for me to keep track!
I also get the feeling my gut reaction about some of the secondary characters is going to prove right, especially given the events of the last few chapters. While that would mean that the writing has done it's job really well in giving the reader an uncomfortable feeling despite the seemingly positive roles played by the characters in question, it would almost be a disappointment that any such change doesn't come as a complete surprise. Again, I will just have to keep reading and find out!
I've heard good things about book 3, and I'm definitely invested enough to continue with the series. Just like Poppy, I have a lot of questions! But I am going to wait until both halves of the GA are out to pick it up, so for now, it's to be continued...
January 21, 2026
This book was a good follow up to the first book! We get to see how the fall out of Cas' announcement affects everyone involved. From there we see how Cas and Poppy's relationship changed from one where she is angry and distrustful of him to one where they have come together and are able to admit to each other what they really feel. It was a beautiful thing to see. However, it has been quite annoying to see how the rest of the people have reacted to Poppy. She has suffered abuse from every corner it seems like. It doesn't stop just because a few people have realized she isn't what they think. I think that the story is unraveling nicely and doesn't feel rushed. We get to spend time at each place with all the characters and we begin to feel close to them. Of course that means when something happens to them it affects us that much more. I really like the world building in this book. As someone who is re-reading this series, it's interesting to see the little bread crumbs that have been layed for us and how we will be able to slowly put them together.
The spice in this book is minimal. It is really nice when we do get it because it means so much to the characters. I wouldn't mind a few more pages filled with these two reaffirming their relationship. I would give the spice a 3 out of 5...barely. Overall, I have been enjoying the graphic audio of this book and I can't wait to continue this series. Re-reading it has sparked my love of this series all over again and here I am, starting the third book. I think that anyone who enjoys fantasy, slow burns and found families will definitely enjoy this series and this book.
The spice in this book is minimal. It is really nice when we do get it because it means so much to the characters. I wouldn't mind a few more pages filled with these two reaffirming their relationship. I would give the spice a 3 out of 5...barely. Overall, I have been enjoying the graphic audio of this book and I can't wait to continue this series. Re-reading it has sparked my love of this series all over again and here I am, starting the third book. I think that anyone who enjoys fantasy, slow burns and found families will definitely enjoy this series and this book.
September 5, 2025
Everything Poppy has ever believed is a lie. From the world she was raised in, to the man she was falling in love with. How can she believe anything, when she has no way of knowing what is real?
Prince Casteel has many names, and has told many lies. While the reasons behind his plans may have been honourable, can that excuse his deception? Originally determined to trade her life for that of his brother, now he proposes an alliance of sorts, where they can help each other achieve their goals. As their enemies start to pile up from both sides, Poppy isn’t sure whether she can trust him, or herself.
This book was definitely a whirlwind, while we could clearly see Poppy’s feelings for Cas, it was also easy to see his feelings for her, despite her reluctance to believe him. As they fought together planning to forge a new bond, we were left waiting to see whether it would remain a plan, or become something more.
What I loved the most is that despite the mistrust between them, and their reluctance to tie themselves to the other, they maintained a united front in the face of their enemies (aside from the occasional threat of stabbing). This book ends on another cliffhanger, leaving you wanting so much more.
Prince Casteel has many names, and has told many lies. While the reasons behind his plans may have been honourable, can that excuse his deception? Originally determined to trade her life for that of his brother, now he proposes an alliance of sorts, where they can help each other achieve their goals. As their enemies start to pile up from both sides, Poppy isn’t sure whether she can trust him, or herself.
This book was definitely a whirlwind, while we could clearly see Poppy’s feelings for Cas, it was also easy to see his feelings for her, despite her reluctance to believe him. As they fought together planning to forge a new bond, we were left waiting to see whether it would remain a plan, or become something more.
What I loved the most is that despite the mistrust between them, and their reluctance to tie themselves to the other, they maintained a united front in the face of their enemies (aside from the occasional threat of stabbing). This book ends on another cliffhanger, leaving you wanting so much more.
September 30, 2025
Yea… back into the feminist stuff that usually makes people roll their eyes (me included). You know the type: “One not-fully-trained female warrior equals twenty fully trained male warriors.” Sure… how is that even remotely possible? Meh.
What I actually liked in the beginning of this series was how realistic it felt: Poppy wasn’t written as an overdone “alpha female boss girl,” and that grounded quality really pulled me in. But then… it slid straight into cringe just to match the trend.
And then there’s the balance (or lack of it). This installment felt like 20% plot and 80% inappropriate scenes. Honestly, I had to skip through entire chapters. Writers: one meaningful, story-driving intimacy scene? Great. But when it’s endless filler and fluff, it stops being romantic and just becomes annoying and predictable. Definitely not what I signed up for.
That said, what little amount of plot we actually got was genuinely so good. Those moments reminded me why I picked up this series in the first place. I just wish there had been more of that and less… everything else.
What I actually liked in the beginning of this series was how realistic it felt: Poppy wasn’t written as an overdone “alpha female boss girl,” and that grounded quality really pulled me in. But then… it slid straight into cringe just to match the trend.
And then there’s the balance (or lack of it). This installment felt like 20% plot and 80% inappropriate scenes. Honestly, I had to skip through entire chapters. Writers: one meaningful, story-driving intimacy scene? Great. But when it’s endless filler and fluff, it stops being romantic and just becomes annoying and predictable. Definitely not what I signed up for.
That said, what little amount of plot we actually got was genuinely so good. Those moments reminded me why I picked up this series in the first place. I just wish there had been more of that and less… everything else.
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