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Ashes & Amaranth
🌿 Ashes & Amaranth (The Seraphim Enclave Trilogy, Book One) 🌿
In a world where magic is fading and ancient bloodlines carry the weight of forgotten power, Chiara’s life is about to unravel.
When strange visions and unexplainable abilities awaken within her, Chiara is thrust into a hidden world of witches, vampires, and old secrets. But she is more than just an outsider — she is the last heir to the Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave, a lineage bound by light, shadow, and sacrifice.
As Chiara’s power grows, so do the dangers around her. Dark forces are rising: Luciana, a witch consumed by vengeance, seeks to twist magic itself, while Enzo, a vampire leader haunted by loss, prepares to wage war on the realms of light. Caught between love and loyalty, between a past she never knew and a future she never asked for, Chiara must decide who she truly is — and what she is willing to become.
Will she hold the balance or break the world apart?
For fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses, Shadow and Bone, and The Witcher, Ashes & Amaranth is a lush romantic fantasy filled with slow-burn romance, dangerous alliances, magical intrigue, and the fierce journey of a heroine discovering her power.
✨ Lovers of found family, enemies-to-lovers tension, ancient covens, and stories where love and destiny collide — welcome to your next obsession.
In a world where magic is fading and ancient bloodlines carry the weight of forgotten power, Chiara’s life is about to unravel.
When strange visions and unexplainable abilities awaken within her, Chiara is thrust into a hidden world of witches, vampires, and old secrets. But she is more than just an outsider — she is the last heir to the Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave, a lineage bound by light, shadow, and sacrifice.
As Chiara’s power grows, so do the dangers around her. Dark forces are rising: Luciana, a witch consumed by vengeance, seeks to twist magic itself, while Enzo, a vampire leader haunted by loss, prepares to wage war on the realms of light. Caught between love and loyalty, between a past she never knew and a future she never asked for, Chiara must decide who she truly is — and what she is willing to become.
Will she hold the balance or break the world apart?
For fans of A Court of Thorns and Roses, Shadow and Bone, and The Witcher, Ashes & Amaranth is a lush romantic fantasy filled with slow-burn romance, dangerous alliances, magical intrigue, and the fierce journey of a heroine discovering her power.
✨ Lovers of found family, enemies-to-lovers tension, ancient covens, and stories where love and destiny collide — welcome to your next obsession.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 13, 2025
5 people are currently reading
1767 people want to read
About the author
Janet Carson
2 books10 followersJanet Carson is the author of Ashes & Amaranth, the first book in the Seraphim Enclave Trilogy — a sweeping romantic fantasy of forbidden love, ancient magic, and the courage to follow the heart.
She blends her love of richly imagined worlds with deep emotional storytelling, creating unforgettable journeys for her characters and readers alike. When she isn’t writing, Janet enjoys exploring nature, sipping tea while lost in a good book, and connecting with fellow lovers of fantasy romance.
Connect with Janet here on Goodreads, where she shares updates, behind‑the‑scenes glimpses into her writing process, and news about upcoming books in the trilogy.
She blends her love of richly imagined worlds with deep emotional storytelling, creating unforgettable journeys for her characters and readers alike. When she isn’t writing, Janet enjoys exploring nature, sipping tea while lost in a good book, and connecting with fellow lovers of fantasy romance.
Connect with Janet here on Goodreads, where she shares updates, behind‑the‑scenes glimpses into her writing process, and news about upcoming books in the trilogy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 28, 2025
Of course I can't say 100% provably that this was written with generative AI because I wasn't present at the time of its production, but I can say it sure is full of features that are extremely common in AI-generated material, and those features tend to produce a lousy book.
The ChatGPT-generated cover is, as always, the first clue. Look, if you don't recognize the image as AI-generated at this point, I don't know how much more help I can offer. Compare it to other covers with human-like figures from this list if you must: https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/2... . It behooves any reader who might venture into self-published works these days to educate themselves on the signs on genAI-prompted books to protect themselves, assuming you care to avoid AI-generated books. If you don't care whether what you read is AI-made or not, then great. Maybe this is the book for you. Of course an AI cover doesn't logically mean the content is also AI, but believe me, the odds of a fully human-written novel having an AI cover is easily 1000 to 1, and if you find anyone who's exposed themselves to more AI books than me and they offer a different assessment, go with that instead.
In any case, once you slap an AI cover on your book, the bar to present content that is undeniably human-written immediately sets itself high, and this book rapidly fails to meet that bar. AI-generated books are so often so absurdly wispy; everything is whispers and echoes and memory and veils and other insubstantialities. Just the chapter titles in this book are a cavalcade of such: Whispers of the Heart; Whispers of the Enchanted Garden; Whispers of Fate and Echoes of the Heart; Echoes from the Hidden; Whisper of Immortal Love: Secrets Unveiled; Between Duty and Desire - Where the heart hesitates, the soul whispers; Whispers of Celestina; Whispers Across the Veil: The Celestina Guidance; The Whispering Light; all that kind of thing. Don't you want to read anything of substance? There's a place for subtlety but an entire book isn't it.
Wispy, ethereal phrases that don't actually mean anything frequently occur. It's the kind of thing that kind of sounds deep but completely falls apart at the slightest consideration of what the words are actually saying, which is nothing. Some examples:
The story on a broader scale isn't any more substantial. There's a lot of openly stated fate stuff, these two people will complete each other, blah blah blah, and then you suffer through several chapters of them meeting each other through half-remembered memories and vague feelings and seemingly cryptic, vapid statements. It's several chapters that go nowhere just to supposedly achieve the thing that it was stated at the beginning was going to happen. It was stated up front too how deeply meaningful it would all be, and then it painfully, barely incrementally plays out via wispy scenes that advance nothing and just repeat the same material ad nauseum. Repetition is another thing AI-generated books do A LOT. In just this book's preview, the prologue has a flashback scene (helpfully labelled "Flashback Scene") and then chapter 8 opens with the exact same scene, just somewhat rewritten but incredibly similar, almost like AI was regenerating the same thing anew. In between those two there is a replicated scene of the eternal vampire brother and sister speaking cryptically about the significance of his wispy fated draw to the painter lady, that thing that the prologue said, "this is going to happen" after which the reader is forced to endure a drawn out period of that thing slooooowwly happening in a manner that only seems like it's making linear progress because that's how your brain interprets scenes that take place one after the other, when in reality there's no actual progress happening. See my review for Whispers of Ravenwood: A Haunted Love Story – A Halloween Short Story; this the same false sense of progression at work.
Another AI tic: negative parallelism. "Not that. This.," or "Not just this. This," or "Not that. Not this. This other overdramatically stated thing. Let's check in on this book:
Of course these kinds of things show up in human-written material too, and I've read plenty of stuff that I would never believe to be the product of AI that contains some phrasing that AI overuses. It's all about the extent to which it's used, and the appropriateness of it. All the examples here are from only the book's free preview pages; I'm supremely confident the rest of the book will continue in the same manner to an absurd degree that no human writer would (or should) ever use.
AI-generated material in YA and romance also overuses melodramatic, clipped sentence fragments, often with multiple line breaks to give it all extra drama. Again, a little bit of this happens in human-written cheesy books too, but the degree of its appearance, both within this book and in plenty of other books that are undeniably AI-made, adds further fuel to the fire.
I could go on and on, such as pointing out how often things hum, things that you would never normally think humming was the way to describe the noise they might make, while from experience I know that everything in AI books hums or thrums; how overused "echo" is, but at this point you get the idea.
And again, hey, maybe it's not AI. Maybe the author wrote this all herself, exactly as cheesy and overwrought and overusing the same devices AI does. It's possible. And maybe you're the type of reader who sees only positive things in all the quotes I've included here; if so, great, maybe this is the book for you.
But when you have an AI cover ... and the text is stuffed with commonalities of AI-generated fiction ... and the author made a blog post after the first "hey, this is AI" comments started coming out about this book (https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...) that itself is full of wispy, overwrought, unfocused statements that at one point says, "my work remains fully human-crafted" but that's very different from saying "I don't use generative AI at all to write" and we all know that AI users, particularly AI "authors", continue to express the belief that what they do still counts as writing and creativity because they put work into the prompts and the ideas were theirs, really that counts the same ... I know what my conclusion is.
The ChatGPT-generated cover is, as always, the first clue. Look, if you don't recognize the image as AI-generated at this point, I don't know how much more help I can offer. Compare it to other covers with human-like figures from this list if you must: https://www.goodreads.com/list/show/2... . It behooves any reader who might venture into self-published works these days to educate themselves on the signs on genAI-prompted books to protect themselves, assuming you care to avoid AI-generated books. If you don't care whether what you read is AI-made or not, then great. Maybe this is the book for you. Of course an AI cover doesn't logically mean the content is also AI, but believe me, the odds of a fully human-written novel having an AI cover is easily 1000 to 1, and if you find anyone who's exposed themselves to more AI books than me and they offer a different assessment, go with that instead.
In any case, once you slap an AI cover on your book, the bar to present content that is undeniably human-written immediately sets itself high, and this book rapidly fails to meet that bar. AI-generated books are so often so absurdly wispy; everything is whispers and echoes and memory and veils and other insubstantialities. Just the chapter titles in this book are a cavalcade of such: Whispers of the Heart; Whispers of the Enchanted Garden; Whispers of Fate and Echoes of the Heart; Echoes from the Hidden; Whisper of Immortal Love: Secrets Unveiled; Between Duty and Desire - Where the heart hesitates, the soul whispers; Whispers of Celestina; Whispers Across the Veil: The Celestina Guidance; The Whispering Light; all that kind of thing. Don't you want to read anything of substance? There's a place for subtlety but an entire book isn't it.
Wispy, ethereal phrases that don't actually mean anything frequently occur. It's the kind of thing that kind of sounds deep but completely falls apart at the slightest consideration of what the words are actually saying, which is nothing. Some examples:
The snow fell in solemn silence, blanketing the Carpathian Mountains in a hush older than language.Hopefully you get the idea.
[. . . ]
He painted with oils, wrote in Latin and in silence.
[. . . ]
her face lifted to the sun, her soul humming like something half-remembered
[. . . ]
The marble path gleamed with dew, weaving through the ancient olive trees like a memory waiting to be remembered.
[. . . ]
The earth felt sacred beneath her feet, and the breeze carried whispers only she could hear.
[. . . ]
The ache settled in quietly—not sharp, but deep. A throb in the chest where joy had once lived, now echoing with a hollow stillness.
[. . . ]
Her pastries were stories in sugar and spice—ancient recipes whispered down from grandmothers long ago. Some said the dough rose better in her hands. Others swore the almond glaze healed heartbreak.
[. . . ]
"You remember," he whispered. "Even if you don't understand it yet."
It wasn't coincidence. It couldn't be.
This was soul memory.
Old magic.
The kind that defied logic and refused to stay buried.
The story on a broader scale isn't any more substantial. There's a lot of openly stated fate stuff, these two people will complete each other, blah blah blah, and then you suffer through several chapters of them meeting each other through half-remembered memories and vague feelings and seemingly cryptic, vapid statements. It's several chapters that go nowhere just to supposedly achieve the thing that it was stated at the beginning was going to happen. It was stated up front too how deeply meaningful it would all be, and then it painfully, barely incrementally plays out via wispy scenes that advance nothing and just repeat the same material ad nauseum. Repetition is another thing AI-generated books do A LOT. In just this book's preview, the prologue has a flashback scene (helpfully labelled "Flashback Scene") and then chapter 8 opens with the exact same scene, just somewhat rewritten but incredibly similar, almost like AI was regenerating the same thing anew. In between those two there is a replicated scene of the eternal vampire brother and sister speaking cryptically about the significance of his wispy fated draw to the painter lady, that thing that the prologue said, "this is going to happen" after which the reader is forced to endure a drawn out period of that thing slooooowwly happening in a manner that only seems like it's making linear progress because that's how your brain interprets scenes that take place one after the other, when in reality there's no actual progress happening. See my review for Whispers of Ravenwood: A Haunted Love Story – A Halloween Short Story; this the same false sense of progression at work.
Another AI tic: negative parallelism. "Not that. This.," or "Not just this. This," or "Not that. Not this. This other overdramatically stated thing. Let's check in on this book:
She reminded him of Celestina — not in appearance, but in essence.That last one is my favorite. Go ahead and smile not with your mouth, but with your presence. Make a tiktok to show the world what that's like.
[. . . ]
His eyes tracked the stars above him, not for navigation, but for answers. For signs.
[. . . ]t
The ache settled in quietly—not sharp, but deep.
[. . . ]
She yearned—not for attention, but for connection. For something she couldn't name.
[. . . ]
She didn't know that her art was not just expression, but invocation.
[. . . ]
The eyes were alive. Piercing.
He had felt in instantly. A pulse.
Not from the canvas—from her.
[. . . ]
She felt her body trembling. Not in fear. In recognition.
[. . . ]
Chiara's hand trembled slightly—not from exhaustion, but from something she couldn't name.
[. . . ]
Then he smiled. Not with his mouth, but with his presence.
Of course these kinds of things show up in human-written material too, and I've read plenty of stuff that I would never believe to be the product of AI that contains some phrasing that AI overuses. It's all about the extent to which it's used, and the appropriateness of it. All the examples here are from only the book's free preview pages; I'm supremely confident the rest of the book will continue in the same manner to an absurd degree that no human writer would (or should) ever use.
AI-generated material in YA and romance also overuses melodramatic, clipped sentence fragments, often with multiple line breaks to give it all extra drama. Again, a little bit of this happens in human-written cheesy books too, but the degree of its appearance, both within this book and in plenty of other books that are undeniably AI-made, adds further fuel to the fire.
...something shimmered faintly around her—like a veil catching sunlight.Whispering in bold text is certainly an innovation.
He hadn't expected it.
That glow. That presence.
[. . . ]
A painting hung behind the counter—one he hadn't seen before. Abstract. Fluid.
[. . . ]
"Do you know what scares you more—losing her? Or letting her see what you really are?"
His answer didn't come.
He didn't have one.
Not yet.
[. . . ]
The he smiled. Not with his mouth, but with his presence. Sad. Tender. Eternal.
And just as she stepped closer—
He vanished.
[. . . ]
What was that?
Who was he?
She didn't believe in fate.
Not really.
But the dream left behind something real. A residue. A hum in her bones.
[. . . ]
Propped on an easel draped in handwoven linen. No frame. No spotlight. Just the raw image—pure, immediate, undeniable.
It was him.
Chiara had painted his face.
[. . . ]
In her hands she had summoned him—not in body, not yet—but in truth.
And it had reached him.
Across centuries. Across bloodlines. Across worlds.
[. . . ]
One pair of eyes flickered open.
Not Gabriel's. Not Celestina's.
A lesser Elder—sensitive to shifts—opened his gaze to the still chamber and whispered:
"She is waking."
I could go on and on, such as pointing out how often things hum, things that you would never normally think humming was the way to describe the noise they might make, while from experience I know that everything in AI books hums or thrums; how overused "echo" is, but at this point you get the idea.
And again, hey, maybe it's not AI. Maybe the author wrote this all herself, exactly as cheesy and overwrought and overusing the same devices AI does. It's possible. And maybe you're the type of reader who sees only positive things in all the quotes I've included here; if so, great, maybe this is the book for you.
But when you have an AI cover ... and the text is stuffed with commonalities of AI-generated fiction ... and the author made a blog post after the first "hey, this is AI" comments started coming out about this book (https://www.goodreads.com/author_blog...) that itself is full of wispy, overwrought, unfocused statements that at one point says, "my work remains fully human-crafted" but that's very different from saying "I don't use generative AI at all to write" and we all know that AI users, particularly AI "authors", continue to express the belief that what they do still counts as writing and creativity because they put work into the prompts and the ideas were theirs, really that counts the same ... I know what my conclusion is.
November 21, 2025
Janet Carson has achieved something remarkable with Ashes & Amaranth, constructing a narrative that operates on multiple levels simultaneously while maintaining an effortless readability that belies its sophistication. This opening volume of the Seraphim Enclave Trilogy demonstrates an author who understands that truly compelling fantasy emerges not from spectacle alone but from the intimate intersection of personal transformation and mythic destiny.
The brilliance of Carson's approach lies in how she structures Chiara's awakening as both literal magical emergence and metaphorical coming into selfhood. Many fantasy novels present power as something external to be acquired or conquered, but Carson frames it as an excavation of what was always present yet buried. This philosophical positioning creates a protagonist whose journey resonates beyond the confines of genre, speaking to anyone who has ever felt disconnected from their own potential. The visions and abilities that surface within Chiara function as narrative devices while simultaneously exploring how we reconcile unexpected aspects of ourselves with the identity we thought we possessed.
Carson demonstrates exceptional skill in her handling of legacy and inheritance as thematic elements. The Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave represents not merely a source of power but a weight of expectation, history, and sacrifice that Chiara never consented to carry. The author navigates this tension with nuance, avoiding the trap of making heritage either purely empowering or purely burdensome. Instead, she presents lineage as something complex and multifaceted, acknowledging that our origins shape us while insisting we retain agency in determining what that shaping ultimately means. This mature perspective on inheritance distinguishes the work from simpler chosen one narratives.
The architecture of the magical world Carson constructs reveals careful thought about how supernatural societies would actually function. Rather than presenting covens and vampire hierarchies as static fantasy fixtures, she imbues them with political complexity and internal tensions that suggest living, evolving organizations. The fading of magic itself serves as a brilliant narrative pressure point, creating urgency while also commenting on loss, obsolescence, and the struggle to preserve what matters against inevitable change. This environmental approach to magic as a diminishing resource adds ecological resonance to the fantasy framework.
Enzo's characterization showcases Carson's understanding that effective romantic interests must exist as fully realized individuals with their own narrative arcs rather than merely serving the protagonist's journey. His leadership role, complicated by personal loss and the responsibilities of protecting his people, creates a character whose attraction to Chiara makes sense beyond physical chemistry. The vampire exists in a state of perpetual negotiation between his nature and his choices, between the demands of his position and his private grief. Carson allows this complexity to develop gradually, trusting readers to appreciate subtlety over exposition.
The treatment of Luciana as antagonist reveals perhaps the most sophisticated element of Carson's storytelling. By grounding the witch's vengeance in genuine pain and giving her motivations that extend beyond simple villainy, the author creates moral ambiguity that enriches the entire narrative. Luciana's desire to twist magic itself speaks to how trauma can warp our relationship with power, how suffering can convince us that destruction serves justice. Carson never asks readers to condone these actions, but she does insist we understand their human origins. This compassionate approach to antagonism elevates the philosophical stakes considerably.
The slow burn romance between Chiara and Enzo functions as more than gratification for readers seeking emotional payoff. Carson uses their developing connection to explore themes of trust, vulnerability, and what it means to truly see another person beyond roles and reputations. The restraint she exercises in pacing their relationship demonstrates confidence in her craft, an understanding that anticipation creates more powerful emotional experiences than immediate consummation. Each charged moment between them carries weight precisely because Carson has earned it through careful character development and situational tension.
Carson's prose style deserves analysis for its particular achievement in balancing accessibility with literary merit. She writes with clarity and momentum that propels readers forward while embedding layers of meaning that reward closer attention. Her descriptive passages create atmosphere without halting narrative progression, a difficult balance many fantasy authors struggle to achieve. The language feels contemporary enough to connect with modern readers while carrying sufficient weight to convey the ancient, mythic qualities of the world she depicts.
The exploration of identity formation through Chiara's arc touches on profound psychological territory. Carson examines how we construct selfhood, how external revelation forces internal reevaluation, and how accepting new truths about ourselves requires dismantling previously held certainties. The protagonist's struggle between who she believed herself to be and who she might become mirrors the universal human experience of growth through disorientation. By framing this in fantastical terms, Carson makes these abstract concepts tangible and emotionally immediate.
The found family dynamics that emerge throughout the narrative speak to Carson's understanding of how chosen connections often carry more significance than biological ones. She depicts the gradual formation of these bonds with authenticity, showing how shared danger and mutual vulnerability create intimacy that transcends conventional relationship categories. These connections provide Chiara with something her magical heritage cannot offer emotional grounding and the sense of belonging that comes from being chosen rather than predetermined.
What makes Ashes & Amaranth particularly noteworthy is Carson's ability to honor fantasy traditions while subverting reader expectations in subtle ways. She delivers the genre pleasures audiences crave while questioning assumptions about power, destiny, and heroism. The result feels both comfortingly familiar and refreshingly original, a difficult duality to achieve. Carson has positioned this trilogy to explore increasingly complex territory while maintaining the emotional core that makes readers invest deeply in fictional worlds. This opening volume establishes a foundation of remarkable depth, promising a series that will satisfy on both visceral and intellectual levels.
The brilliance of Carson's approach lies in how she structures Chiara's awakening as both literal magical emergence and metaphorical coming into selfhood. Many fantasy novels present power as something external to be acquired or conquered, but Carson frames it as an excavation of what was always present yet buried. This philosophical positioning creates a protagonist whose journey resonates beyond the confines of genre, speaking to anyone who has ever felt disconnected from their own potential. The visions and abilities that surface within Chiara function as narrative devices while simultaneously exploring how we reconcile unexpected aspects of ourselves with the identity we thought we possessed.
Carson demonstrates exceptional skill in her handling of legacy and inheritance as thematic elements. The Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave represents not merely a source of power but a weight of expectation, history, and sacrifice that Chiara never consented to carry. The author navigates this tension with nuance, avoiding the trap of making heritage either purely empowering or purely burdensome. Instead, she presents lineage as something complex and multifaceted, acknowledging that our origins shape us while insisting we retain agency in determining what that shaping ultimately means. This mature perspective on inheritance distinguishes the work from simpler chosen one narratives.
The architecture of the magical world Carson constructs reveals careful thought about how supernatural societies would actually function. Rather than presenting covens and vampire hierarchies as static fantasy fixtures, she imbues them with political complexity and internal tensions that suggest living, evolving organizations. The fading of magic itself serves as a brilliant narrative pressure point, creating urgency while also commenting on loss, obsolescence, and the struggle to preserve what matters against inevitable change. This environmental approach to magic as a diminishing resource adds ecological resonance to the fantasy framework.
Enzo's characterization showcases Carson's understanding that effective romantic interests must exist as fully realized individuals with their own narrative arcs rather than merely serving the protagonist's journey. His leadership role, complicated by personal loss and the responsibilities of protecting his people, creates a character whose attraction to Chiara makes sense beyond physical chemistry. The vampire exists in a state of perpetual negotiation between his nature and his choices, between the demands of his position and his private grief. Carson allows this complexity to develop gradually, trusting readers to appreciate subtlety over exposition.
The treatment of Luciana as antagonist reveals perhaps the most sophisticated element of Carson's storytelling. By grounding the witch's vengeance in genuine pain and giving her motivations that extend beyond simple villainy, the author creates moral ambiguity that enriches the entire narrative. Luciana's desire to twist magic itself speaks to how trauma can warp our relationship with power, how suffering can convince us that destruction serves justice. Carson never asks readers to condone these actions, but she does insist we understand their human origins. This compassionate approach to antagonism elevates the philosophical stakes considerably.
The slow burn romance between Chiara and Enzo functions as more than gratification for readers seeking emotional payoff. Carson uses their developing connection to explore themes of trust, vulnerability, and what it means to truly see another person beyond roles and reputations. The restraint she exercises in pacing their relationship demonstrates confidence in her craft, an understanding that anticipation creates more powerful emotional experiences than immediate consummation. Each charged moment between them carries weight precisely because Carson has earned it through careful character development and situational tension.
Carson's prose style deserves analysis for its particular achievement in balancing accessibility with literary merit. She writes with clarity and momentum that propels readers forward while embedding layers of meaning that reward closer attention. Her descriptive passages create atmosphere without halting narrative progression, a difficult balance many fantasy authors struggle to achieve. The language feels contemporary enough to connect with modern readers while carrying sufficient weight to convey the ancient, mythic qualities of the world she depicts.
The exploration of identity formation through Chiara's arc touches on profound psychological territory. Carson examines how we construct selfhood, how external revelation forces internal reevaluation, and how accepting new truths about ourselves requires dismantling previously held certainties. The protagonist's struggle between who she believed herself to be and who she might become mirrors the universal human experience of growth through disorientation. By framing this in fantastical terms, Carson makes these abstract concepts tangible and emotionally immediate.
The found family dynamics that emerge throughout the narrative speak to Carson's understanding of how chosen connections often carry more significance than biological ones. She depicts the gradual formation of these bonds with authenticity, showing how shared danger and mutual vulnerability create intimacy that transcends conventional relationship categories. These connections provide Chiara with something her magical heritage cannot offer emotional grounding and the sense of belonging that comes from being chosen rather than predetermined.
What makes Ashes & Amaranth particularly noteworthy is Carson's ability to honor fantasy traditions while subverting reader expectations in subtle ways. She delivers the genre pleasures audiences crave while questioning assumptions about power, destiny, and heroism. The result feels both comfortingly familiar and refreshingly original, a difficult duality to achieve. Carson has positioned this trilogy to explore increasingly complex territory while maintaining the emotional core that makes readers invest deeply in fictional worlds. This opening volume establishes a foundation of remarkable depth, promising a series that will satisfy on both visceral and intellectual levels.
November 21, 2025
Ashes & Amaranth marks an impressive debut for Janet Carson's Seraphim Enclave Trilogy, delivering a fantasy experience that will resonate deeply with readers who fell under the spell of Sarah J. Maas's richly layered worlds and Leigh Bardugo's atmospheric storytelling. Carson demonstrates a remarkable ability to blend the romantic intensity found in Jennifer L. Armentrout's work with the intricate magical systems that make Deborah Harkness's All Souls Trilogy so compelling.
The novel centers on Chiara, whose discovery of her heritage as the last heir to the Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave launches readers into a world where ancient magic pulses beneath the surface of reality. Carson's prose carries the same lyrical quality that makes Laini Taylor's writing so mesmerizing, yet maintains the accessibility that keeps pages turning late into the night. The worldbuilding feels fully realized, with covens, vampire enclaves, and forgotten bloodlines woven together in ways that recall the best elements of Anne Rice's atmospheric vampire chronicles while carving out entirely fresh territory.
What elevates this story beyond standard fantasy fare is Carson's nuanced approach to her characters. Chiara's journey from confusion to empowerment unfolds with genuine emotional resonance, avoiding the rushed transformations that sometimes plague the genre. Her relationship with Enzo develops with the patient tension that made readers swoon over Rhysand and Feyre, building through shared vulnerability rather than instant attraction. The vampire leader carries depths of loss and complexity that bring to mind the tortured heroes of Karen Marie Moning's Fever series, yet Enzo feels distinctly his own creation.
Luciana stands out as a particularly compelling antagonist. Carson refuses to paint her simply as evil, instead crafting a character whose vengeance stems from understandable pain. This moral ambiguity recalls the sophisticated character work in V.E. Schwab's novels, where motivations blur the lines between hero and villain. The witch's arc adds philosophical weight to the narrative, forcing readers to consider how suffering transforms us and whether any cause justifies the corruption of magic itself.
The magical system Carson constructs feels both ancient and immediate. Unlike fantasies where magic serves merely as window dressing, here it functions as a living force with costs and consequences. The balance between light and shadow that Chiara must navigate echoes themes explored in Holly Black's Folk of the Air series, but Carson brings her own perspective on what it means to embrace both aspects of power without losing yourself in the process.
The pacing deserves special mention. Carson understands when to let tension simmer and when to unleash dramatic revelations. The slow burn romance never stalls the plot, instead enriching the stakes as Chiara must weigh personal desire against her inherited responsibilities. Readers who appreciated the way Elise Kova balanced romance with world-ending threats in her Air Awakens series will find similar satisfaction here.
Carson's writing style elevates the entire experience. Her descriptions create vivid imagery without becoming overwrought, finding the poetry in both darkness and beauty. The emotional beats land with genuine impact, whether depicting the wonder of discovered power or the agony of impossible choices. There's a maturity to the prose that suggests Carson understands fantasy should offer more than escapism, that the best stories in this genre illuminate truths about identity, belonging, and transformation.
The found family dynamics that emerge throughout the narrative will appeal to readers who treasure that element in works by Cassandra Clare and Marissa Meyer. Carson shows how connections forged through adversity can become as binding as blood, how loyalty freely given carries more weight than obligation. These relationships ground Chiara's journey, providing emotional anchors as her world expands beyond anything she imagined possible.
For readers seeking their next obsession after devouring series by authors like Rebecca Ross, Roseanne A. Brown, or Shelby Mahurin, Ashes & Amaranth offers exactly the kind of immersive experience that makes fantasy so addictive. Carson has crafted a story that honors the genre's beloved tropes while bringing fresh perspective and emotional authenticity. The first installment leaves readers eager for the next chapter while feeling thoroughly satisfied with the journey taken. This trilogy promises to become a cherished addition to any romantic fantasy collection.
The novel centers on Chiara, whose discovery of her heritage as the last heir to the Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave launches readers into a world where ancient magic pulses beneath the surface of reality. Carson's prose carries the same lyrical quality that makes Laini Taylor's writing so mesmerizing, yet maintains the accessibility that keeps pages turning late into the night. The worldbuilding feels fully realized, with covens, vampire enclaves, and forgotten bloodlines woven together in ways that recall the best elements of Anne Rice's atmospheric vampire chronicles while carving out entirely fresh territory.
What elevates this story beyond standard fantasy fare is Carson's nuanced approach to her characters. Chiara's journey from confusion to empowerment unfolds with genuine emotional resonance, avoiding the rushed transformations that sometimes plague the genre. Her relationship with Enzo develops with the patient tension that made readers swoon over Rhysand and Feyre, building through shared vulnerability rather than instant attraction. The vampire leader carries depths of loss and complexity that bring to mind the tortured heroes of Karen Marie Moning's Fever series, yet Enzo feels distinctly his own creation.
Luciana stands out as a particularly compelling antagonist. Carson refuses to paint her simply as evil, instead crafting a character whose vengeance stems from understandable pain. This moral ambiguity recalls the sophisticated character work in V.E. Schwab's novels, where motivations blur the lines between hero and villain. The witch's arc adds philosophical weight to the narrative, forcing readers to consider how suffering transforms us and whether any cause justifies the corruption of magic itself.
The magical system Carson constructs feels both ancient and immediate. Unlike fantasies where magic serves merely as window dressing, here it functions as a living force with costs and consequences. The balance between light and shadow that Chiara must navigate echoes themes explored in Holly Black's Folk of the Air series, but Carson brings her own perspective on what it means to embrace both aspects of power without losing yourself in the process.
The pacing deserves special mention. Carson understands when to let tension simmer and when to unleash dramatic revelations. The slow burn romance never stalls the plot, instead enriching the stakes as Chiara must weigh personal desire against her inherited responsibilities. Readers who appreciated the way Elise Kova balanced romance with world-ending threats in her Air Awakens series will find similar satisfaction here.
Carson's writing style elevates the entire experience. Her descriptions create vivid imagery without becoming overwrought, finding the poetry in both darkness and beauty. The emotional beats land with genuine impact, whether depicting the wonder of discovered power or the agony of impossible choices. There's a maturity to the prose that suggests Carson understands fantasy should offer more than escapism, that the best stories in this genre illuminate truths about identity, belonging, and transformation.
The found family dynamics that emerge throughout the narrative will appeal to readers who treasure that element in works by Cassandra Clare and Marissa Meyer. Carson shows how connections forged through adversity can become as binding as blood, how loyalty freely given carries more weight than obligation. These relationships ground Chiara's journey, providing emotional anchors as her world expands beyond anything she imagined possible.
For readers seeking their next obsession after devouring series by authors like Rebecca Ross, Roseanne A. Brown, or Shelby Mahurin, Ashes & Amaranth offers exactly the kind of immersive experience that makes fantasy so addictive. Carson has crafted a story that honors the genre's beloved tropes while bringing fresh perspective and emotional authenticity. The first installment leaves readers eager for the next chapter while feeling thoroughly satisfied with the journey taken. This trilogy promises to become a cherished addition to any romantic fantasy collection.
October 6, 2025
I just finished reading Ashes & Amaranth, and wow, what a magical ride it was! From the very first page, I felt drawn into a world where power, destiny, and mystery blend so beautifully. The story had everything I love — magic, strong emotions, and a heroine who slowly finds her strength amidst chaos.
The book follows Chiara, a girl whose life changes when strange visions and powers awaken within her. As I read, I felt every bit of her confusion, courage, and pain. The world of witches, vampires, and old secrets felt so real — like I was walking beside Chiara through every twist and turn. The writing is rich yet easy to follow, making it a true page-turner.
Janet Carson did a brilliant job of creating a world filled with ancient bloodlines, rivalries, and emotional depth. I could feel the intensity between Chiara and Enzo, the layers of love and danger building with every chapter. The author’s imagination is so vivid — her descriptions of magic, light, and darkness kept me hooked till the very end.
What I loved most is how this book combines fantasy with emotion. The slow-burn romance, the powerful theme of self-discovery, and the tension between good and evil all made it unforgettable. I honestly couldn’t put it down!
Ashes & Amaranth is a beautifully written fantasy that captures the struggle between light and shadow, love and loss, and power and purpose. It left me thinking about how every choice shapes who we become — and that’s what makes this story truly special.
The book follows Chiara, a girl whose life changes when strange visions and powers awaken within her. As I read, I felt every bit of her confusion, courage, and pain. The world of witches, vampires, and old secrets felt so real — like I was walking beside Chiara through every twist and turn. The writing is rich yet easy to follow, making it a true page-turner.
Janet Carson did a brilliant job of creating a world filled with ancient bloodlines, rivalries, and emotional depth. I could feel the intensity between Chiara and Enzo, the layers of love and danger building with every chapter. The author’s imagination is so vivid — her descriptions of magic, light, and darkness kept me hooked till the very end.
What I loved most is how this book combines fantasy with emotion. The slow-burn romance, the powerful theme of self-discovery, and the tension between good and evil all made it unforgettable. I honestly couldn’t put it down!
Ashes & Amaranth is a beautifully written fantasy that captures the struggle between light and shadow, love and loss, and power and purpose. It left me thinking about how every choice shapes who we become — and that’s what makes this story truly special.
October 9, 2025
From the very first page, Ashes & Amaranth pulled me into a world where magic flickers like dying embers and destiny whispers through the trees . The first impression? Absolutely enchanting ,it feels like stepping into a dream woven with mystery, power, and emotion.
Janet Carson’s worldbuilding is rich and immersive, reminding me of Shadow and Bone vibes with a touch of gothic beauty.The story follows Chiara, whose awakening powers reveal she’s the last heir of the Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave. Her journey into a realm of witches, vampires, and forgotten bloodlines is filled with danger, betrayal, and slow-burn romance .
Each character,from the fierce Luciana to the tormented Enzo ,adds depth and tension, making their connections feel raw and real. The pacing keeps you hooked, balancing tender moments with breathtaking twists.What truly stands out is the theme of identity, love, and sacrifice .
Carson’s writing is poetic yet sharp, carrying emotional weight that lingers even after the last page.
The story explores what it means to embrace both light and shadow and Chiara’s transformation feels empowering and heartbreakingly human. For fans of fantasy with heart and heat, this book is pure magic .
Janet Carson’s worldbuilding is rich and immersive, reminding me of Shadow and Bone vibes with a touch of gothic beauty.The story follows Chiara, whose awakening powers reveal she’s the last heir of the Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave. Her journey into a realm of witches, vampires, and forgotten bloodlines is filled with danger, betrayal, and slow-burn romance .
Each character,from the fierce Luciana to the tormented Enzo ,adds depth and tension, making their connections feel raw and real. The pacing keeps you hooked, balancing tender moments with breathtaking twists.What truly stands out is the theme of identity, love, and sacrifice .
Carson’s writing is poetic yet sharp, carrying emotional weight that lingers even after the last page.
The story explores what it means to embrace both light and shadow and Chiara’s transformation feels empowering and heartbreakingly human. For fans of fantasy with heart and heat, this book is pure magic .
September 23, 2025
Ashes & Amaranth by Janet Carson is a beautiful start to a fantasy trilogy that blends magic, danger, and romance. The story brings out a world where ancient secrets and forgotten bloodlines shape the future, and it keeps the reader curious from the very beginning.
The journey of Chiara is written with depth and detail, showing how a simple girl gets caught in a much bigger world of witches, vampires, and hidden power. The world-building feels vivid, with every scene pulling readers deeper into the mystery and magic.
What makes this book engaging are the strong characters and the conflicts they carry. Luciana’s thirst for vengeance and Enzo’s pain-filled leadership add intensity, while Chiara’s struggle to balance love, loyalty, and power makes the story emotional as well as adventurous. The slow-burn romance is another highlight that adds warmth to the darker themes.
Overall, Ashes & Amaranth is a rich and captivating fantasy that will leave readers waiting for the next part of the trilogy. With its mix of danger, emotions, and destiny, it is perfect for anyone who enjoys epic fantasy with a touch of romance and intrigue.
The journey of Chiara is written with depth and detail, showing how a simple girl gets caught in a much bigger world of witches, vampires, and hidden power. The world-building feels vivid, with every scene pulling readers deeper into the mystery and magic.
What makes this book engaging are the strong characters and the conflicts they carry. Luciana’s thirst for vengeance and Enzo’s pain-filled leadership add intensity, while Chiara’s struggle to balance love, loyalty, and power makes the story emotional as well as adventurous. The slow-burn romance is another highlight that adds warmth to the darker themes.
Overall, Ashes & Amaranth is a rich and captivating fantasy that will leave readers waiting for the next part of the trilogy. With its mix of danger, emotions, and destiny, it is perfect for anyone who enjoys epic fantasy with a touch of romance and intrigue.
October 2, 2025
Ashes and Amaranth introduces us to Chiara, a young woman whose life shifts dramatically when she discovers her connection to a dying world of magic. She finds herself bound to the legacy of the Seraphim Enclave, a lineage that ties her to witches, vampires, and an ancient struggle between light and shadow. The story follows her as she grapples with newfound powers, the threat of dark forces, and choices that may decide the fate of her world.
I loved the atmosphere of the novel. It is rich with haunting forests, powerful enchantments, and characters who feel complex and alive. The slow-burn romance between Chiara and her unexpected counterpart was beautifully written, and the shifting alliances kept me hooked. I especially enjoyed how the book balanced intimate emotional struggles with sweeping worldbuilding.
This book blends adventure, romance, and mystery in a way that will appeal to both fantasy lovers and readers who enjoy strong character journeys. If you are drawn to tales of hidden legacies, dangerous magic, and heroines who learn to embrace their strength, this is a story you will not want to miss.
I loved the atmosphere of the novel. It is rich with haunting forests, powerful enchantments, and characters who feel complex and alive. The slow-burn romance between Chiara and her unexpected counterpart was beautifully written, and the shifting alliances kept me hooked. I especially enjoyed how the book balanced intimate emotional struggles with sweeping worldbuilding.
This book blends adventure, romance, and mystery in a way that will appeal to both fantasy lovers and readers who enjoy strong character journeys. If you are drawn to tales of hidden legacies, dangerous magic, and heroines who learn to embrace their strength, this is a story you will not want to miss.
November 11, 2025
Reading Ashes & Amaranth felt like discovering a hidden garden at twilight, where beauty and danger grow intertwined. I picked up this book expecting another fantasy read, but within the first few chapters, something shifted. The way Janet Carson weaves magic into the ordinary world made me pause and reread passages, savoring the language like something rare and precious.
Chiara's awakening resonated with me on a deeper level than I anticipated. There's something profoundly moving about watching someone discover they are more than they believed themselves to be. As her visions intensified and her powers emerged, I found myself holding my breath during late night reading sessions, completely lost in her journey. The confusion she experiences, that disorienting moment when your entire understanding of reality fractures, felt achingly real. Carson captures that vulnerability beautifully, and I felt every tremor of uncertainty alongside Chiara.
The world itself became a character I grew to love. The Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave, with its weight of forgotten power and ancient obligations, pulled me into depths I wasn't prepared for. When witches and vampires entered the narrative, they didn't feel like fantasy tropes but like beings with their own sorrows and motivations. Luciana's vengeance burned through the pages with such intensity that I understood her pain even while fearing what she might become. Enzo haunted me in the best possible way. His presence in the story carried such melancholy and restrained power that I found myself thinking about him long after closing the book.
What moved me most was how the romance developed. Nothing felt rushed or forced. Instead, connections deepened naturally through shared danger and quiet moments of understanding. My heart ached beautifully during those scenes where love and loyalty clashed, where Chiara had to weigh her own desires against the destiny thrust upon her. Carson writes emotion with such subtlety that I often found tears in my eyes without quite knowing when they started.
The book made me think about identity and transformation, about how we become ourselves through impossible choices. Chiara's struggle between the past she never knew and the future she never wanted echoed something universal. Her journey toward accepting both her light and shadow felt like permission to embrace my own complexities. By the final pages, I felt changed somehow, as though I'd walked through fire alongside her and emerged different.
Ashes & Amaranth is more than entertainment. It's an experience that lingers in the quiet spaces of your mind, asking questions about power, sacrifice, and what we're willing to become for those we love. Janet Carson has crafted something genuinely special here, a story that honors the messiness of growth and the terrible beauty of discovering your true self. This book will stay with me, and I suspect I'll return to it when I need reminding that transformation, however painful, can lead to something magnificent.
Chiara's awakening resonated with me on a deeper level than I anticipated. There's something profoundly moving about watching someone discover they are more than they believed themselves to be. As her visions intensified and her powers emerged, I found myself holding my breath during late night reading sessions, completely lost in her journey. The confusion she experiences, that disorienting moment when your entire understanding of reality fractures, felt achingly real. Carson captures that vulnerability beautifully, and I felt every tremor of uncertainty alongside Chiara.
The world itself became a character I grew to love. The Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave, with its weight of forgotten power and ancient obligations, pulled me into depths I wasn't prepared for. When witches and vampires entered the narrative, they didn't feel like fantasy tropes but like beings with their own sorrows and motivations. Luciana's vengeance burned through the pages with such intensity that I understood her pain even while fearing what she might become. Enzo haunted me in the best possible way. His presence in the story carried such melancholy and restrained power that I found myself thinking about him long after closing the book.
What moved me most was how the romance developed. Nothing felt rushed or forced. Instead, connections deepened naturally through shared danger and quiet moments of understanding. My heart ached beautifully during those scenes where love and loyalty clashed, where Chiara had to weigh her own desires against the destiny thrust upon her. Carson writes emotion with such subtlety that I often found tears in my eyes without quite knowing when they started.
The book made me think about identity and transformation, about how we become ourselves through impossible choices. Chiara's struggle between the past she never knew and the future she never wanted echoed something universal. Her journey toward accepting both her light and shadow felt like permission to embrace my own complexities. By the final pages, I felt changed somehow, as though I'd walked through fire alongside her and emerged different.
Ashes & Amaranth is more than entertainment. It's an experience that lingers in the quiet spaces of your mind, asking questions about power, sacrifice, and what we're willing to become for those we love. Janet Carson has crafted something genuinely special here, a story that honors the messiness of growth and the terrible beauty of discovering your true self. This book will stay with me, and I suspect I'll return to it when I need reminding that transformation, however painful, can lead to something magnificent.
October 8, 2025
In a world where the last whispers of magic fade into shadows, Ashes & Amaranth blooms like a spark in the dark. Chiara’s awakening is not just the birth of power but the rise of identity — torn between light and darkness, love and destiny. Her journey flows through secrets, bloodlines, and sacrifices that bind both the heart and the world together.
Janet Carson crafts a universe dripping with beauty and danger — witches burning with vengeance, vampires haunted by loss, and a heroine who dares to hold the balance. Each page shimmers with tension and tenderness, wrapping readers in a story where emotions run as deep as magic itself.
Ashes & Amaranth is a haunting melody of courage and connection — where love becomes rebellion and destiny becomes choice. Perfect for those who crave fantasy woven with feeling, this tale reminds that even in ashes, something beautiful can still bloom.
Janet Carson crafts a universe dripping with beauty and danger — witches burning with vengeance, vampires haunted by loss, and a heroine who dares to hold the balance. Each page shimmers with tension and tenderness, wrapping readers in a story where emotions run as deep as magic itself.
Ashes & Amaranth is a haunting melody of courage and connection — where love becomes rebellion and destiny becomes choice. Perfect for those who crave fantasy woven with feeling, this tale reminds that even in ashes, something beautiful can still bloom.
October 15, 2025
The splendidly composed story of light, shadow and sacrifice. The book "Ashes and Amaranth" by Janet Carson is an enthralling introduction to the book series Seraphim Enclave Trilogy.
Chiara is a kind of heroine that the readers will sympathize with, powerful, yet fragile, vicious, yet kind. It is perfect in terms of balance between the romance and the dark fantasy, and all the characters are alive. .
The book will leave any person who is seeking a good story to read, magical interest, and emotional involvement in a well developed world.
Chiara is a kind of heroine that the readers will sympathize with, powerful, yet fragile, vicious, yet kind. It is perfect in terms of balance between the romance and the dark fantasy, and all the characters are alive. .
The book will leave any person who is seeking a good story to read, magical interest, and emotional involvement in a well developed world.
October 15, 2025
Ashes & Amaranth is all that a lover of romantic fantasy might desire and it is mysterious, emotional and all consuming. Janet Carson narrates her tale richly and vividly, full of supernatural lore and touching humanity.
The evolution of Chiara and her confusing relationships with witches and vampires will make the process endless. The romance between the two is slow burning and is at times intense but delicate such that every moment is memorable.
A superbly crafted and spooky fantasy that forms an incredible introduction to the Seraphim Enclave Trilogy.
The evolution of Chiara and her confusing relationships with witches and vampires will make the process endless. The romance between the two is slow burning and is at times intense but delicate such that every moment is memorable.
A superbly crafted and spooky fantasy that forms an incredible introduction to the Seraphim Enclave Trilogy.
October 15, 2025
Janet Carson gives a breathtaking beginning to a spellbinding trilogy. Ashes & Amaranth is captivating with its air writing, involving characters, and heart crushing decisions. All the magic makes Chiara grow up between love, loyalty and destiny, and it may be considered to be very human. The Seraphim Enclave world is complex and frighteningly beautiful. The book is pure fantasy bliss to a reader that desires emotion, danger and the heartbreak of forbidden love.
November 18, 2025
Janet Carson’s Ashes & Amaranth is a mesmerizing tale that beautifully blends fading magic, ancient bloodlines, and the weight of destiny . From the very first chapter, readers are drawn into Chiara’s unraveling world — a place where witches whisper secrets, vampires hide pain, and the line between light and shadow blurs . The author’s vivid world-building makes you feel the pulse of every spell and the ache of every choice Chiara makes .
Chiara’s journey is one of awakening and courage . As her hidden powers surface, so does the truth about her lineage — the last heir to a legacy that could either save or doom the world . Her relationship with Enzo, the tortured vampire leader, carries a haunting, slow-burn intensity . The emotional depth of their bond keeps the tension alive, making you root for them even when the odds seem impossible .
What truly stands out is how Carson crafts a story filled with darkness and beauty intertwined. The themes of sacrifice, revenge, and forbidden love give the narrative a rich emotional heartbeat . Each scene feels cinematic, painted with the hues of fire, blood, and moonlight — a perfect balance of fantasy and feeling .
Ashes & Amaranth is a tale of identity, destiny, and power . It’s not just about magic — it’s about finding the courage to embrace who you truly are, even when the world burns around you . A hauntingly beautiful start to what promises to be an unforgettable trilogy.
Chiara’s journey is one of awakening and courage . As her hidden powers surface, so does the truth about her lineage — the last heir to a legacy that could either save or doom the world . Her relationship with Enzo, the tortured vampire leader, carries a haunting, slow-burn intensity . The emotional depth of their bond keeps the tension alive, making you root for them even when the odds seem impossible .
What truly stands out is how Carson crafts a story filled with darkness and beauty intertwined. The themes of sacrifice, revenge, and forbidden love give the narrative a rich emotional heartbeat . Each scene feels cinematic, painted with the hues of fire, blood, and moonlight — a perfect balance of fantasy and feeling .
Ashes & Amaranth is a tale of identity, destiny, and power . It’s not just about magic — it’s about finding the courage to embrace who you truly are, even when the world burns around you . A hauntingly beautiful start to what promises to be an unforgettable trilogy.
October 24, 2025
I didn't win the Goodreads giveaway. Which makes me sad...because it means some other unsuspecting bastard DID. Guess I'll have to limit my review to the sample, which trust me is more than enough to pass judgement.
The so-called author claims to be a fine art major, which right off the bat makes me question why they chose to use an AI generated cover (and a shitty one at that). You’d think someone who claims to love art would actually support artists, not undercut them by using a bot that scrapes and regurgitates their work.
It doesn't stop there, unfortunately. The AI use carries right on through to the prose. You've got the usual checklist of items (I don't count rampant overuse of em-dashes anymore. That's practically a "gimme" now). We have the constant check-ins of where the moonlight or sunlight are, because AI is fixated on light sources and the glimmers and shadows they leave. We have the clunky negative parallelism sentence structure. And the curling! So much curling! Scents, sounds, even WORDS all "curl in the air."
We have the chapter titles plucked straight off the ChatGPT fantasy titles Pinterest board: "Symphony of Love and Compassion," "Echoes of Innocence," "Whispers of the Heart," "The Thread Between Worlds," and my personal fave: "Flashback Scene."
We get such awkward, clunky word salad sentences as:
"In a world shaped by simplicity, where innocence ran barefoot across sun-warmed hills and laughter echoed like a song between the trees. She was always in motion—light and wild. The earth felt sacred beneath her feet, and the breeze carried whispers only she could hear."
...that use an inordinate amount of lofty but empty words to convey exactly zero information. (I ain't even gonna flag that as a spoiler, because it'd have to actually say something in order to spoil it.)
The really funny part here, though, is the deja vu. This book reads almost EXACTLY like A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS published by our dear Janet a year ago. With the exact same cardboard cut-out characters (names and all), same shitty nonsensical poem at the beginning.
The only difference: the AI generated prose in that one is clunkier and dumber. Clearly written with an older chatbot model, and then someone ran the old garbage through a new model and hit publish. Again.
Pro-tip, Janet: Taking AI-garbage and trying to polish it up for re-release by passing it through another AI won't make it better. Quite the opposite. It's the law of diminishing returns, like how dubbing VHS to VHS (yes, I am showing my age with that reference) causes a drop-off in quality with each generation until all that’s left is static and noise.
Recommend to avoid. Recommend to avoid A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS, too. Hell, avoid everything Janet Carson puts her name to just to be safe.
The so-called author claims to be a fine art major, which right off the bat makes me question why they chose to use an AI generated cover (and a shitty one at that). You’d think someone who claims to love art would actually support artists, not undercut them by using a bot that scrapes and regurgitates their work.
It doesn't stop there, unfortunately. The AI use carries right on through to the prose. You've got the usual checklist of items (I don't count rampant overuse of em-dashes anymore. That's practically a "gimme" now). We have the constant check-ins of where the moonlight or sunlight are, because AI is fixated on light sources and the glimmers and shadows they leave. We have the clunky negative parallelism sentence structure. And the curling! So much curling! Scents, sounds, even WORDS all "curl in the air."
We have the chapter titles plucked straight off the ChatGPT fantasy titles Pinterest board: "Symphony of Love and Compassion," "Echoes of Innocence," "Whispers of the Heart," "The Thread Between Worlds," and my personal fave: "Flashback Scene."
We get such awkward, clunky word salad sentences as:
"In a world shaped by simplicity, where innocence ran barefoot across sun-warmed hills and laughter echoed like a song between the trees. She was always in motion—light and wild. The earth felt sacred beneath her feet, and the breeze carried whispers only she could hear."
...that use an inordinate amount of lofty but empty words to convey exactly zero information. (I ain't even gonna flag that as a spoiler, because it'd have to actually say something in order to spoil it.)
The really funny part here, though, is the deja vu. This book reads almost EXACTLY like A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS published by our dear Janet a year ago. With the exact same cardboard cut-out characters (names and all), same shitty nonsensical poem at the beginning.
The only difference: the AI generated prose in that one is clunkier and dumber. Clearly written with an older chatbot model, and then someone ran the old garbage through a new model and hit publish. Again.
Pro-tip, Janet: Taking AI-garbage and trying to polish it up for re-release by passing it through another AI won't make it better. Quite the opposite. It's the law of diminishing returns, like how dubbing VHS to VHS (yes, I am showing my age with that reference) causes a drop-off in quality with each generation until all that’s left is static and noise.
Recommend to avoid. Recommend to avoid A TALE OF LOVE AND DARKNESS, too. Hell, avoid everything Janet Carson puts her name to just to be safe.
October 7, 2025
Book Review: Ashes & Amaranth: Book One of the Seraphim Enclave Trilogy by Janet Carson
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Ashes & Amaranth by Janet Carson is a captivating and intricately written fantasy that immerses readers in a world where magic, legacy, and destiny intertwine in hauntingly beautiful ways. The story introduces Chiara, a young woman whose life is forever changed when she begins experiencing visions and discovering powers she cannot explain. What begins as confusion soon unravels into revelation as Chiara learns that she is the last heir to the Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave, a lineage bound to ancient magic and sacrifice.
👉Janet Carson’s storytelling is both poetic and powerful. Her prose brings to life a vivid world filled with witches, vampires, and mystical forces that exist just beneath the surface of reality. Every scene feels intentional, layered with emotion and meaning. The atmosphere she creates is dark yet alluring, pulling readers into a realm where every choice has consequences and every truth hides a shadow. Carson’s ability to balance worldbuilding with emotional intensity makes this story not only immersive but deeply human at its core.
👉Chiara’s journey is one of awakening and transformation. She begins as a character searching for identity and belonging, and through trials and revelations, she discovers both her strength and her purpose. Her connection with Enzo, a vampire haunted by loss and conflict, adds a compelling emotional layer. Their relationship grows with tension, tenderness, and restraint, creating a slow-burn dynamic that feels natural and earned. It complements the overarching theme of light and darkness, love and sacrifice, without overpowering the central plot.
👉The antagonist, Luciana, is a standout element in the narrative. Driven by vengeance and shaped by her own pain, she adds moral complexity that elevates the story beyond a simple good-versus-evil tale. Carson writes her with nuance, showing how power can corrupt and how even the darkest motivations stem from human emotion.
👉What makes Ashes & Amaranth remarkable is its balance of fantasy and heart. It is a story about more than magic and bloodlines.
#review
Rating:5/5
Review:
👉Ashes & Amaranth by Janet Carson is a captivating and intricately written fantasy that immerses readers in a world where magic, legacy, and destiny intertwine in hauntingly beautiful ways. The story introduces Chiara, a young woman whose life is forever changed when she begins experiencing visions and discovering powers she cannot explain. What begins as confusion soon unravels into revelation as Chiara learns that she is the last heir to the Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave, a lineage bound to ancient magic and sacrifice.
👉Janet Carson’s storytelling is both poetic and powerful. Her prose brings to life a vivid world filled with witches, vampires, and mystical forces that exist just beneath the surface of reality. Every scene feels intentional, layered with emotion and meaning. The atmosphere she creates is dark yet alluring, pulling readers into a realm where every choice has consequences and every truth hides a shadow. Carson’s ability to balance worldbuilding with emotional intensity makes this story not only immersive but deeply human at its core.
👉Chiara’s journey is one of awakening and transformation. She begins as a character searching for identity and belonging, and through trials and revelations, she discovers both her strength and her purpose. Her connection with Enzo, a vampire haunted by loss and conflict, adds a compelling emotional layer. Their relationship grows with tension, tenderness, and restraint, creating a slow-burn dynamic that feels natural and earned. It complements the overarching theme of light and darkness, love and sacrifice, without overpowering the central plot.
👉The antagonist, Luciana, is a standout element in the narrative. Driven by vengeance and shaped by her own pain, she adds moral complexity that elevates the story beyond a simple good-versus-evil tale. Carson writes her with nuance, showing how power can corrupt and how even the darkest motivations stem from human emotion.
👉What makes Ashes & Amaranth remarkable is its balance of fantasy and heart. It is a story about more than magic and bloodlines.
#review
December 16, 2025
So I started reading this book at nearly midnight a few days back, thinking that I would just read a chapter or so and then head off to bed. That, really didn't happen. I couldn't put it down (just one more chapter...no, just one MORE chapter) I one more chaptered myself through the whole thing off, lol. This book had a completely different and interesting take on the whole vampire & Witch theme.
This book really drew me into the story and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I'm not sure if I'm glad I started this series or not ... because I really liked this first book and I know there are still more books that have yet to be released!
The love that portrays here is as touching as it is heart-wrenching & I found myself following up with all the characters decisions. They are flawed but likable and you are left wanting to know more about them and the world they live in.
The author did a great job in world building and all the characters, particularly Nikolai and his interactions with other characters are truly marvellous. This book is a very good introduction but i believe this series gets even better as it goes on. The characters change and grow and interact in a way that is entirely honest and real within the worlds they inhabit. This is hands down the best in this genre I've ever read, absolutely.
Once I started, it was hard to put down. The author made some new twists to the vampire legend that merges with the witches and then yes there's werewolves too!
If you like vampires and if you are someone who lives for slow-burn tension, the kind of narrative that tightens its grip gradually until you realize you’re holding your breath, then Ashes and Amaranth will ruin you. And if this is only the beginning? I am both terrified and excited to see what comes next.
This book really drew me into the story and I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I'm not sure if I'm glad I started this series or not ... because I really liked this first book and I know there are still more books that have yet to be released!
The love that portrays here is as touching as it is heart-wrenching & I found myself following up with all the characters decisions. They are flawed but likable and you are left wanting to know more about them and the world they live in.
The author did a great job in world building and all the characters, particularly Nikolai and his interactions with other characters are truly marvellous. This book is a very good introduction but i believe this series gets even better as it goes on. The characters change and grow and interact in a way that is entirely honest and real within the worlds they inhabit. This is hands down the best in this genre I've ever read, absolutely.
Once I started, it was hard to put down. The author made some new twists to the vampire legend that merges with the witches and then yes there's werewolves too!
If you like vampires and if you are someone who lives for slow-burn tension, the kind of narrative that tightens its grip gradually until you realize you’re holding your breath, then Ashes and Amaranth will ruin you. And if this is only the beginning? I am both terrified and excited to see what comes next.
September 24, 2025
Ashes & Amaranth is a captivating entry into a richly imagined world where ancient bloodlines, fading magic, and forbidden power converge. With vivid prose and atmospheric worldbuilding, the story follows Chiara — a seemingly ordinary girl whose reality shatters when her dormant magic awakens. As she’s thrust into the shadowed legacy of the Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave, readers are drawn into a universe brimming with witches, vampires, and the haunting beauty of forgotten lore.
What sets this book apart is its emotional depth and the slow unraveling of Chiara’s identity. The tension between love and duty, light and darkness, is masterfully crafted, especially through the complex relationships — both romantic and familial — that Chiara navigates. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic with Enzo adds the perfect amount of romantic tension without overshadowing the central plot, while Luciana, the vengeance-driven witch, provides a compelling antagonist with layered motives. Fans of morally gray characters, magical politics, and slow-burn suspense will find themselves thoroughly immersed.
With echoes of A Court of Thorns and Roses, Shadow and Bone, and The Witcher, Ashes & Amaranth is a spellbinding beginning to a trilogy that promises even greater stakes ahead. It’s a story about reclaiming legacy, choosing who you become, and the cost of power — wrapped in lush storytelling, dangerous magic, and unexpected alliances. A must-read for romantic fantasy lovers looking for their next magical obsession.
What sets this book apart is its emotional depth and the slow unraveling of Chiara’s identity. The tension between love and duty, light and darkness, is masterfully crafted, especially through the complex relationships — both romantic and familial — that Chiara navigates. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic with Enzo adds the perfect amount of romantic tension without overshadowing the central plot, while Luciana, the vengeance-driven witch, provides a compelling antagonist with layered motives. Fans of morally gray characters, magical politics, and slow-burn suspense will find themselves thoroughly immersed.
With echoes of A Court of Thorns and Roses, Shadow and Bone, and The Witcher, Ashes & Amaranth is a spellbinding beginning to a trilogy that promises even greater stakes ahead. It’s a story about reclaiming legacy, choosing who you become, and the cost of power — wrapped in lush storytelling, dangerous magic, and unexpected alliances. A must-read for romantic fantasy lovers looking for their next magical obsession.
November 25, 2025
Ashes and Amaranth had me feeling like I walked into the wrong house but tried to play it cool anyway. Chiara is just living her life when she suddenly starts seeing weird things and doing magic like she accidentally hit the wrong button on her game console. Next thing she knows folks are telling her she is the last heir of some big old bloodline which sounds nice until every shady character in the universe starts poking around like they want something.
This world is full of witches and vampires and secrets older than my long gone grandma's gossip. Luciana is running around trying to twist magic like she is wringing out a wet towel. Enzo stays having a bad temper all the time that I am surprised the ground does not crack under him. These two are out here ready to tear everything up while Chiara is just trying to figure out why all this family drama got delivered straight to her front porch.
There is romance with a lot of danger and there is Chiara stepping right into a lot of crap like she tripped and refused to get back up. Every time she learns something new the whole situation gets crazier like the plot has its own remote control and keeps hitting fast forward.
By the end I was cheering for her hoping she would save the world or at least stop it from exploding before breakfast.
This here Ebook isn't what I expected!
I give it a 3 outta 5 catfish!
This world is full of witches and vampires and secrets older than my long gone grandma's gossip. Luciana is running around trying to twist magic like she is wringing out a wet towel. Enzo stays having a bad temper all the time that I am surprised the ground does not crack under him. These two are out here ready to tear everything up while Chiara is just trying to figure out why all this family drama got delivered straight to her front porch.
There is romance with a lot of danger and there is Chiara stepping right into a lot of crap like she tripped and refused to get back up. Every time she learns something new the whole situation gets crazier like the plot has its own remote control and keeps hitting fast forward.
By the end I was cheering for her hoping she would save the world or at least stop it from exploding before breakfast.
This here Ebook isn't what I expected!
I give it a 3 outta 5 catfish!
December 21, 2025
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “When ancient magic stirs and forgotten bloodlines awaken, destiny demands a choice between love, power, and sacrifice.”
📘 Title: Ashes & Amaranth
✍️ Author: Janet Carson
📝 Review: Ashes & Amaranth, the first book in The Seraphim Enclave Trilogy, opens the door to a richly imagined world where fading magic and ancient legacies collide. Chiara begins as an ordinary young woman, but unsettling visions and unexplained abilities soon reveal that her life has been shaped by forces far older than she ever imagined. She is not merely discovering magic—she is inheriting a destiny tied to the lost Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave, a bloodline balanced between light and shadow.
As Chiara is drawn into a hidden realm of witches, vampires, and secret covens, the stakes rise quickly. Luciana, driven by vengeance, seeks to corrupt magic itself, while Enzo, a vampire leader burdened by grief, stands on the edge of war. Torn between loyalty, desire, and the weight of her lineage, Chiara must decide whether she will preserve balance or become the catalyst for destruction.
Filled with slow-burn romance, dangerous alliances, and emotional depth, Ashes & Amaranth blends intrigue with heart. Janet Carson delivers a compelling fantasy that explores identity, power, and the cost of embracing who you truly are, making this an irresistible start to an epic new series.
📘 Title: Ashes & Amaranth
✍️ Author: Janet Carson
📝 Review: Ashes & Amaranth, the first book in The Seraphim Enclave Trilogy, opens the door to a richly imagined world where fading magic and ancient legacies collide. Chiara begins as an ordinary young woman, but unsettling visions and unexplained abilities soon reveal that her life has been shaped by forces far older than she ever imagined. She is not merely discovering magic—she is inheriting a destiny tied to the lost Sihlwald Seraphim Enclave, a bloodline balanced between light and shadow.
As Chiara is drawn into a hidden realm of witches, vampires, and secret covens, the stakes rise quickly. Luciana, driven by vengeance, seeks to corrupt magic itself, while Enzo, a vampire leader burdened by grief, stands on the edge of war. Torn between loyalty, desire, and the weight of her lineage, Chiara must decide whether she will preserve balance or become the catalyst for destruction.
Filled with slow-burn romance, dangerous alliances, and emotional depth, Ashes & Amaranth blends intrigue with heart. Janet Carson delivers a compelling fantasy that explores identity, power, and the cost of embracing who you truly are, making this an irresistible start to an epic new series.
November 16, 2025
Ashes & Amaranth completely swept me away. From the moment I started reading, I felt like I had stepped into a world where every shadow holds a secret and every heartbeat carries the echo of old magic. Janet Carson’s writing is absolutely mesmerizing. It is lush, emotional, and full of atmosphere.
Chiara’s journey feels deeply personal. She’s not just discovering her powers but also discovering herself, her strength, her fears and her place in a world that’s both beautiful and brutal. I loved how her story intertwined with Enzo’s and Luciana’s, each of them haunted by their own pasts, yet drawn together by fate. The slow-burn tension, the moral grayness, the balance between love and sacrifice all just worked together beautifully.
I loved how the book made magic feel alive again, like something ancient and sacred breathing through every page. It’s dark, romantic, and utterly spellbinding. For anyone who loves stories that make your heart race and your soul ache just a little, Ashes & Amaranth is the kind of fantasy you’ll want to get lost in.
Chiara’s journey feels deeply personal. She’s not just discovering her powers but also discovering herself, her strength, her fears and her place in a world that’s both beautiful and brutal. I loved how her story intertwined with Enzo’s and Luciana’s, each of them haunted by their own pasts, yet drawn together by fate. The slow-burn tension, the moral grayness, the balance between love and sacrifice all just worked together beautifully.
I loved how the book made magic feel alive again, like something ancient and sacred breathing through every page. It’s dark, romantic, and utterly spellbinding. For anyone who loves stories that make your heart race and your soul ache just a little, Ashes & Amaranth is the kind of fantasy you’ll want to get lost in.
October 7, 2025
Janet Carson’s Ashes & Amaranth is a deeply atmospheric fantasy that pulls readers into a world where ancient power is fading and darkness threatens to rise. Chiara’s awakening as the last heir of the Seraphim Enclave is portrayed with emotional intensity and vulnerability. The story unfolds like a tapestry woven from light and shadow, where every revelation feels both beautiful and painful. Carson’s prose captures the fragility of destiny and the strength required to embrace it.
What makes this novel so compelling is its balance between intricate worldbuilding and intimate character moments. Chiara’s internal struggle mirrors the crumbling world around her, and her connection to Enzo adds an emotional pulse to the narrative. The depth of emotion, the lyrical descriptions, and the sense of inevitability all work together to make Ashes & Amaranth a striking beginning to an unforgettable trilogy.
What makes this novel so compelling is its balance between intricate worldbuilding and intimate character moments. Chiara’s internal struggle mirrors the crumbling world around her, and her connection to Enzo adds an emotional pulse to the narrative. The depth of emotion, the lyrical descriptions, and the sense of inevitability all work together to make Ashes & Amaranth a striking beginning to an unforgettable trilogy.
October 7, 2025
Ashes & Amaranth opens the door to a world where the echoes of ancient bloodlines still shape the present. Janet Carson introduces Chiara, a young woman who finds herself bound to a legacy she never knew existed. Through vivid descriptions and masterful pacing, the novel builds tension between fate and free will, creating a reading experience that feels both grand and personal.
The author’s worldbuilding is rich with detail, yet what lingers most is the emotional heart of the story. The relationships between characters—especially Chiara, Enzo, and Luciana—are layered with pain, love, and consequence. Carson’s writing captures the struggle between the human heart and the call of destiny, making this a powerful and immersive start to the series.
October 7, 2025
Janet Carson’s storytelling in Ashes & Amaranth feels like stepping into a dream filled with fire, moonlight, and prophecy. The blend of witches, vampires, and ancient covens creates an atmosphere both haunting and mesmerizing. Chiara’s journey from confusion to acceptance is written with care and empathy, making her one of the most relatable fantasy heroines in recent years.
What sets this book apart is the emotional realism that lies beneath the fantasy elements. The characters carry grief, love, and ambition in ways that feel utterly human. Carson’s lyrical writing turns every scene into a sensory experience, from the whisper of ancient spells to the tension between forbidden hearts. It is a story that stays with you long after the final page.
October 7, 2025
Ashes & Amaranth is a breathtaking start to The Seraphim Enclave Trilogy, combining mythic storytelling with emotional authenticity. Janet Carson builds a world on the edge of collapse, where every choice carries the weight of legacy. Chiara’s awakening brings both beauty and danger, and her transformation is at once painful and empowering.
Carson’s attention to atmosphere and emotion makes every chapter pulse with meaning. The relationships, particularly the slow-burning bond between Chiara and Enzo, feel tangible and real. Themes of love, sacrifice, and rebirth resonate throughout, creating a story that feels timeless yet fresh. This is a book that honors both the magic of fantasy and the truth of human resilience.
October 7, 2025
Janet Carson crafts a deeply immersive world in Ashes & Amaranth, one where ancient secrets shape every decision and every shadow hides a story. Chiara’s evolution from a confused young woman into a bearer of light and legacy is written with emotional precision. The balance between wonder and dread makes the reading experience unforgettable.
The novel thrives on contrasts—love and betrayal, hope and despair, destiny and choice. Carson’s writing feels cinematic yet intimate, carrying readers through battles of both magic and emotion. By the end, Chiara’s strength feels earned, and the world she inhabits feels achingly real. It is a rare fantasy that delivers both grandeur and heart in equal measure.
October 7, 2025
Ashes & Amaranth draws readers into a beautifully constructed world where light and darkness are more than mere opposites—they are intertwined forces shaping destiny. Janet Carson’s command of language and pacing gives the story a natural rhythm, moving effortlessly between quiet introspection and powerful confrontation. Chiara’s awakening is not just magical but deeply human.
The author’s greatest strength lies in her ability to evoke emotion through imagery. Every spell, vision, and revelation feels alive with consequence. The tension between Chiara’s heritage and her humanity creates an ongoing inner conflict that adds depth to the adventure. This is a story of identity, courage, and the cost of becoming who you were meant to be
October 7, 2025
In Ashes & Amaranth, Janet Carson takes familiar fantasy elements—witches, vampires, lost bloodlines—and reinvents them through her poetic prose and emotional depth. The book unfolds like an ancient legend rediscovered, full of mystery and heartache. Chiara’s journey of self-discovery is the story’s beating heart, and her evolution is beautifully written.
Each character brings a different shade of morality to the story. Enzo’s pain, Luciana’s rage, and Chiara’s confusion intersect to create an atmosphere of tension and longing. Carson’s skillful layering of conflict and compassion makes this novel stand out among modern fantasy debuts. It feels like the start of something vast and enduring.
Each character brings a different shade of morality to the story. Enzo’s pain, Luciana’s rage, and Chiara’s confusion intersect to create an atmosphere of tension and longing. Carson’s skillful layering of conflict and compassion makes this novel stand out among modern fantasy debuts. It feels like the start of something vast and enduring.
October 7, 2025
Ashes & Amaranth is a story where destiny is both gift and curse. Janet Carson’s writing is lush and cinematic, filled with haunting imagery that lingers long after reading. Chiara’s discovery of her power and lineage takes readers through moments of fear, awe, and revelation. Every page deepens the mystery surrounding her world and the forces seeking to control it.
The emotional journey is what truly anchors the narrative. Carson doesn’t rush her characters or their relationships, allowing tension to build naturally. The slow-burn romance adds warmth to the darker undertones, while the exploration of legacy and sacrifice gives the book its lasting power. It is fantasy written with feeling, precision, and heart.
October 7, 2025
Ashes & Amaranth explores the boundaries between destiny and choice through a heroine who must learn to wield power she never wanted. Janet Carson creates a world so vivid that it feels like stepping through a veil into another realm. The tension between light and dark magic is reflected in Chiara’s internal conflict, giving the story both weight and meaning.
Carson’s prose is immersive and atmospheric, painting every setting with meticulous care. The relationships between characters evolve organically, often revealing the fragile line between love and loyalty. It is a story about discovering strength in vulnerability and hope in the face of ruin. This first book promises a trilogy full of depth and wonder.
Carson’s prose is immersive and atmospheric, painting every setting with meticulous care. The relationships between characters evolve organically, often revealing the fragile line between love and loyalty. It is a story about discovering strength in vulnerability and hope in the face of ruin. This first book promises a trilogy full of depth and wonder.
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