From The Ashes: A Kingdom of Beasts and Starlight

by R.C. Perry

In the city of stars, two destinies
collide.

At the end of her hope, faced with
poverty and famine, twenty-five year
old Remmy sets out on the adventure
of a lifetime, battling beasts, demons,
and creatures of the night to save the
Prince of Valeria, entrapped in his own
father’s snare.
The reward?
Survival.
And the key to the kingdom.

Sterling is a Fae Prince and the heir to
the throne of Valeria, but he knows he
will never be king. His father’s hatred
of him knows no bounds as he uses his
powers to force Sterling under his
thumb. Kidnapped at his father’s orders
and held hostage on a mountain ruled
by beasts, Sterling’s only hope lay with
a girl from the villages who’s
never left her hometown.

In a world where evil reigns,
can love bring two souls together? Or will it bring about their downfall?

Genres: Fantasy

512 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 12, 2026

About the author

R.C. Perry lives in a mythical castle with a handsome, broody fae prince. They've been happily married for centuries and have two little furry fae babies.

When R.C. isn't writing swoon-worthy romances or whimsical tales of conquest, she's baking goods at her cottage bakery, sipping coffee in a corner cafe, soaking up the sun at the beach, traveling the world, or curled up in her cozy reading chair, exploring fantastical realms.

As an avid reader with interests spanning multiple genres, it's no surprise she has stories to tell.

Follow her on TikTok, Instagram, or Facebook for updates on what she is working on next!

Reviews

[BookishVibesClub · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the Romantasy for the book girlies who loved Hunger Games but now read books with fae ❤️‍🔥 You get a determined FMC who is strong and capable of taking on just about anything, in a high fantasy world with dangerously magical creatures, and a prince who has been taken captive!be and t0rtured by the king - his own father. He is a grumpy/broody prince who is hurt and hiding a big heart.

I love the dialogue between the FMC and the MMC! It’s fun and bantery. And I really enjoyed their inner dialogue. Remmy is fun and doesn’t let anything get in her way. The Prince is broody and protective and the big feels come out.

The growing tension between them while they are stuck working together to survive is perfection 🔥

I love the world and the magic system! So unique and well-built.

Side character note: Emerie is the sister we all wish the older Acheron’s would have been. And I LOVE Teagan. It’s rare for me to completely fall for a side character and their story, but this one is done so well. He’s easy to love and his story builds the overall plot very well.

Epic Fantasy feels with quest-like travels, magical creatures, and amazing world building

❤️‍🔥 Determined FMC
❤️‍🔥 Princess Trials (Deadly)
❤️‍🔥 Caretaking
❤️‍🔥 She says “Who did this to you?”
❤️‍🔥 Rebellion
❤️‍🔥 Broody MMC
❤️‍🔥 Dangerous Travel
❤️‍🔥 One Bed
❤️‍🔥 Tension
❤️‍🔥 Burn the world for her
❤️‍🔥 Touch her and die

🫑🫑 No Spice | Closed Door

[Sam Yaworski · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! It is compelling fantasy with a strong female protagonist and detailed world building. The story follows a heroine who refuses to accept a powerless role in a kingdom filled with magic, dangerous beasts, and injustice. Instead of waiting for rescue, she takes control of her fate, saves the prince herself, and challenges traditional fantasy expectations proving her strength and bravery. I can not wait to continue reading the next installment of The Valerian Chronicles! Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this amazing book!

[Hannah Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowww this book was so good!!! The world building and character development were phenomenal! I loved following Remmy’s journey! She’s so brave. And I love how Sterling will do anything to protect her. 🤧

This book is heavy at times and Chapter 34 especially was very triggering (attempted r*pe) for those of you deciding to read this. Language is mild and there’s nothing too explicit.

I love stories with adventure and characters bonding through it and learning to work together and care for each other! The cliffhanger?!?! I NEED THE NEXT BOOK NOW!!! So thankful to be able to ARC read this one!

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of beta reading this book and let me just say…This book is incredible - easily one of my top picks this year. It's a no-spice fantasy about a girl fighting to save her family from starvation, and her last-ditch effort is entering a contest. The story follows a human but fiercely capable FMC who's never ventured beyond her hometown. With fae, magic, dragons, a charming MMC, and a badass FMC, this book has it all.

[Anna · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️!!! No spice

From the Ashes has such a fun, creative, and immersive fantasy world. I loved learning about the politics of the kingdom and the different beasts, creatures, and gods that R.C. Perry created. I was fully invested in Remmy’s quest, and the plot lines the other characters followed.

Remmy is my favorite type of FMC. Resilient, caring, and strong. She would do anything for those she loves, and she consistently puts every person she meets before herself. Also, side note, but the fact that she completes her whole quest of battling beasts and gods wearing a dress is just so ICONIC.

Sterling is my favorite type of MMC, a brooding and protective prince who would do anything for the woman he loves. He would quite literally burn the world for her.

The tension between Remmy and Sterling was so good and I loved watching their relationship build throughout the story. The hair washing scene😭 so good!

I loved all of the other POVs of the characters as well! I was not expecting to get so many different POVs and I absolutely loved it. It created such an engaging and fast-paced story. Teigan’s POV was a particular favorite of mine. I enjoyed seeing his character mature and grow throughout the book. Although, I do feel a bit like the different side characters went from strangers to close confidants very quickly and it felt a bit rushed. I would’ve loved to see even more interactions between the characters.

But, regardless, this book was so, SO good. The characters, the plot, the world. I loved it. And, oh my gosh, that ENDING! I need the next book ASAP!!!

Thank you so much to the author for giving me the opportunity to read and review this ARC.

[Kalleigh Royn · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!

This was a dynamic, fast-paced fantasy that immediately drew me into its rich world.

Remmy is everything I love in a strong female lead: no-nonsense and resilient AF. Her sheer will to survive drives the early plot and makes her journey utterly compelling. Then there's Sterling, the Fae Prince whose story truly broke my heart. He was so easy to root for. I desperately wanted him to escape his father's snare and find nothing but happiness. But the true standout for me was Teigan. His character arc was fantastic, and he quickly became my absolute favorite.

The multiple POVs enriched the narrative, but I found myself wanting a bit more time with a key character before switching perspectives. Also, full transparency: I wasn't nearly as invested in certain characters' storylines (sorry not sorry, Vincent!).

Overall, if you're looking for a fantasy where an ordinary girl fights to save a tortured prince, this book is for you!

[Maddie Strong · Rating 5 out of 5]

10/15/25:
let’s just start my review with the fact that this book will be on my top books of 2025 and i am already begging for book 2.
there are so many thing i love about this book so i feel like the best place to start is with remmy. she goes through so much that would harden pretty much anyone. but she handles it with grace and even though it makes her stronger, she doesn’t become a callous person.

I don’t want to say too much about sterling because of spoilers so I will just leave it at how he treats remmy is immaculate!!!!

teigan is so precious and honestly some of his chapters are my favorite. i love getting his pov.

FTA had enough action but also enough “slow” scenes so the pacing was so good. I always wanted to know what was going to happen next but we also really got to know our characters too.

lastly, there is no spice but the tension is THERE. so so good. also some of the dialogue and inner thoughts had me laughing out loud!!!

10/09/25:
a full review coming soon but for now I’m begging everyone to go pre-order this book !!!!!!

[LeeEllen Belcher (Caw) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trigger Warning: There is an attempted SA on the FMC.
This fantasy has it all: action, adventure, a rebellion, and a resilient FMC battling dark horrors. The phenomenal and immersive world building, outstanding character growth, and twists I didn't see coming, are topped off with a sprinkle of slow burn, no spice romance.
With Remmy's family being the poorest in town, the only solution is for her to rescue the Crown Prince from the evil King's prison atop Mt. Malus. During her journey she faces treacherous climates and horrific creatures. Once she reaches Prince Sterling he treats her cruelly and keeps his distance from her. During their journey to the kingdom they face more dangers, and start to bond over their traumatic experiences. While hiding from the evil King they discover a rebellion that wants to overthrow the King and put the Prince on the throne. When Remmy's kidnapped Sterling thinks he knows what's happened, but the twists don't stop there.
Will Sterling open up to Remmy, and go through with the King's decree? Will they ever escape the King's treachery?
I received an Advanced Reader Copy with no expectation of a review.
All opinions are my own.

[Faith · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️‍🔥ARC Review❤️‍🔥

“You’re safe, and there is nothing to get off your skin. You’re not tainted. You’re not ruined. You’re perfect. You’re body is perfect. You’re beautiful and brighter than all of the stars in Valeria. They envy you. Their light is dimmer in your presence as though even they know no beauty could ever compare to yours.”

You’ll enjoy this book if you love:
✨Multiple POV
⚔️Rebellion
✨One bed
⚔️Slow burn
✨Fae/ Shapeshifters

The FMC is strong and resilient. She goes through so many challenges throughout the book and embarks on a quest to help her family. The MMC is a prince who has been locked away, carrying deep trauma and struggles he must overcome. He becomes fiercely protective of the FMC and would do absolutely anything to keep her safe.

The beginning is a little slow as the world is built and the characters are introduced. Since it’s told through multiple POVs, you get to learn about more characters than just the FMC and MMC. Each one has an important role to play, and I really hope we see even more of them in the second book.

I truly enjoyed this story the world-building, the characters, and especially the yearning. There is no spice, but the slow burn is done so well that it never feels lacking. The anticipation surrounding the rebellion and the main characters kept me turning pages, eager to see what would happen next. It ends with many storylines still unresolved, and I cannot wait to continue the journey in book two.

Thank you so much for the early copy!

📖 Preorder now release date: January 12th

✨ Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Cadence · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, any fantasy book that provides a pronunciation guide earns an automatic star just from that. But not only does the author give you a pronunciation guide, you get an entire glossary of characters, places, and creatures. And let me tell you, some of these creatures sound awesome! Now I just need an illustrated glossary so I can see if my imagination is doing these fantastically described beasts justice.

Okay, so, as far as the actual story goes, I LOVED every moment of it; from the beautiful dedication, to the very end of this well written adventure. And when I say adventure, I mean it. This book was jam packed with action and edge of the seat moments. There was also humor and some super sweet moments to round it all out.

The bits of character art included were a nice treat. And that, along with all the really cool characters and creatures, had my imagination soaring. The way people, places, and things were described couldn't have been done better and the world building was wonderful.

Now for a few of my other takeaways....

1. I want an Ember...do you think I could convince my husband that this is a NEED?
2. It's nice to know teenagers are the same in every world. ("If he shrugs at me again, I am going to wallop him.")
3. "Even the strongest people need saving sometimes" ...nuff said...

If you're a fan of epic fantasy with some romance mixed in, along with intriguing yet terrifying creatures and beautifully complex characters who are having astounding adventures, in a world you kind of wish you could visit, then this is the book for you.

I received an advanced review copy of this book. This review is my honest opinion and thoughts

[Brandihreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

Book dedication:
"For all of the girls who stayed-when they shouldn't have. For all of the girls who've stared down their demons and told them to go back to hell. For all of the "broken girls"- You're more beautiful than you know. I see you. And you're not alone."

My thoughts:
This romantasy was filled with action, slow burn, adventures, rebellion, and plot twists. I enjoyed the multi-POV that let me connect with characters beyond the MMC and FMC. The start was slow, but it quickly picked up. It has immersive world-building and impressive character development. Remmy, the resilient and fierce FMC, embarks on a perilous quest to rescue the Prince, battling fearsome creatures. Sterling, destined for legends, struggles with trauma and is fiercely protective of Remmy. I adore him! He's grumpy and she's sunshine. Teigan's POVs added depth to the story as well as the other characters and I love Ember, the adorable companion fox. This is a no spice romantasy.

I can't wait for book two!! I need to know what happens after that ending!! 👀

Thank you for the early copy! 🫶🏼

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

From The Ashes: A Kingdom of Beasts and Starlight doesn’t just tell a story, it pulls readers into a universe where every shadow and star holds meaning. Remmy’s journey, from the villages to battling beasts and demons to save Prince Sterling, feels less like a plot and more like a living call to courage and hope.

What struck me most is how this adventure is about more than survival or romance. Yes, there are perilous beasts, dark magic, and royal intrigue but at its heart, this is a story about resilience, love, and the courage to defy impossible odds. Sterling and Remmy aren’t just characters they’re mirrors of the struggles and triumphs readers secretly root for in their own lives.

And the world you’ve built? Valeria is alive. It’s thrilling, dangerous, and yet deeply personal. Readers don’t just want to escape into this world they want to live it, cheer for these heroes, and share it with others.

Fae lore, magical kingdoms, and thrilling quests, this book has EVERYTHING!!!

[Ainsley Shaw · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was anticipating this book so much and it did. not. disappoint👏🏼

The world building was so well done. I truly felt so immersed in the different regions and I loved following along on Remmy’s journey through the different settings.

Remmy is such a strong, solid character. She never once annoyed me. Sometimes the FMC in fantasy books can get a little whiny/annoying/stubborn, but that’s not Remmy. She really was a fighter and didn’t take any crap from anyone.

Sterling is the perfect mix of soft and broody. The way that he protected Remmy and slowly fell for her was perfect. I also just wanted to give the guy a hug. He’s been through the wringer and deserves a happy ending.

And speaking of endings, the CLIFFHANGER? I wasn’t sure how I expected the book to end but I wasn’t expecting such a plot twist. I’ll definitely be reading book two and can’t wait to continue the story.

[CeeReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

6/5 stars. 11/10. No notes.

I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and being able to send RC Perry my unhinged ramblings all the way through. Even if she wouldn't tell me if I was right or not. (Spoiler i was) and also loved being able to share my thoughts with her after i had finished.

From the Ashes is a slow burn, adventure filled, no spice romantasy filled with action and plot twists.

Remmy comes from a poor family who are struggling to survive, so she enters a contest set by the King to rescue his son Prince Sterling from Mt Malus. She must face trials, trails and things she'd only heard about in stories, will she make it? and will it be everything she has hoped for?

I really enjoyed the world building in this book, it drew me in from the get go and just kept giving, with something new around every corner and incredible character growth. I could talk about this book all day but i would only be able to do that by spoiling it and we don't do that here.

This story captures perfectly a found family, a resilient FMC, wonderful friends made along the way, grief, loneliness, the feeling of not belonging - and this isn't just your main characters. You could say Remmy and Sterling are the main quest and those we meet along the way are the side quest and if you know me you know i love a good side quest.

I cannot wait for this story to continue. I NEED ANSWERS

[Anna Whaley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh wow! Did this book have me hooked from the first page! The intensity of the writing just drew me in. I could feel every emotion, every pain the MC’s received. I love the fact that it is a woman setting out and going through numerous physical trials to try and rescue the prince to save her family. There is so much more going on than just the rescue. Rebellion is building. People are not always who they say they are and so much more. And the ending!! Argh!!! I need the next book now! I definitely would recommend this book to anyone who likes fantasy with a little shifter and a splash of romance thrown in.

I did read this as an advanced readers copy and am giving my opinion of my own free will.

[Isabell Dewitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

LISTEN LADY. hooked hooked hooked

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — A Masterpiece

I devoured this book.

It’s funny and entertaining in all the right moments, yet action-packed enough to keep my heart racing. The multiple POVs flow seamlessly — every character feels alive and important. One minute I’m laughing, the next I’m clutching my chest and wiping away tears because wow, it gets emotional.

There were scenes that made me gasp, scenes that made me sad, and scenes where I legitimately had to pause and just breathe. The tension? The plot twists? The PEARL-CLUTCHING. 👀

Downright WONDERFUL.

And that cliffhanger at the end???
I’m already counting down the days until the next book. If you want a story that grabs you by the soul and refuses to let go — read this.

[Amber | ✨ Hidden Within The Book ✨ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!! This book is absolutely a top favorite for me. I love the two MCs and the world building. I could not put this book down.

I will absolutely read anything this author writes and this book has earned 6 stars for me.


(CW: violence/battles, mild language, nudity to prevent hypothermia but not spicy or very detailed.)

[Abby Bromwich · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! The characters were wonderful, or not depending on who they were, the twists could have been expected, but weren't...
The depth to the emotional side of the characters was beautiful to read at times and heartwrenching at others.
I am so looking forward to the second book already!!!

[Sarah Jernigan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a strong, resilient FMC, and that is exactly what Remmy is. I personally wasn't a fan of the multiple POVs because I was fully invested in Remmy, but I can definitely see why having Teigan's POV is important to the story. The story has good pacing and kept me guessing until the very end. I am very excited to see what will happen in book 2!

[Tracey · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5* review to come.

[HayvinsBooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

THIS BOOK reached into my chest, squeezed, and whispered “You Are Mine!” 🫠

Slow burn, sharp tension, zero spice, and maximum ache = PERFECTION!! 🔥

If you love:
❤️‍🔥Morally Grey MMC
❤️‍🔥Fierce FMC
❤️‍🔥One Bed
❤️‍🔥Multi-POV’s
❤️‍🔥Dragons
❤️‍🔥Found Family
❤️‍🔥Inner Dialogue
❤️‍🔥Banter
❤️‍🔥Animal Sidekicks
❤️‍🔥Slow Burn
❤️‍🔥Touch her or him & ☠️

Then From the Ashes is for 🫵🏼

⚠️Check the triggers first.

[Amanda McKee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book!! it drew me in and kept my attention so much eas going on!!!! I was so upset it ended on a cliff hanger!!! I need to read the next one now!!!!

[Mandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful debut by the amazing R.C Perry.
It is a fascinating romantasy with an intriguing world and beautifully written characters. You are taken on an adventure from the very first page, and you will be begging for book two at the end. I was swept away by not only the banter and tension between our two main characters but also by the beautiful themes of healing, strength, and love that truly shine through in her storytelling.
Don't wait to give this amazing book a try.


thanks so much for the early ebook copy. Though I did receive and early copy my thoughts, opinions and reviews are my own.

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️
To me, this was like a gender reverse Rapunzel with our FMC rescuing the prince with going through some crazy Hunger Game like trials to do so. At times, the story had a very YA feel. The only thing that is stopping me from labeling it as that is the mention of SA, so please check your trigger warnings. We also have multiple POVs in this story, not just our 2 main characters. While I liked getting Taigan's POV, six is a bit much initially.
Remmy is an FMC who is a strong resilient lead who doesn't instantly know how to be a battle ready soldier, but is willing to fight for her family. She and the MMC have some swoon worthy moments, but this is a clean romance so far. They also had some trouble communicating, which was a little frustrating.
I really liked the plot twist at the end. I can't wait for book 2.
Thank you for choosing me to be an ARC Reader.

[Tanvi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very strong debut!

I loved the characters and the plot line kept me engaged. The way the emotional turmoil of both the characters (as well as the side characters) are described was great and made me feel for them.

I did feel that a lot happened in the first 25% of the book, but the book found its rhythm across 40% and the story became even better. I also wished that each POV was a little longer, but overall this book is highly recommended.

[Erin Ellison · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I believe you will escape this prison, but in order to rise from the ashes—you first have to burn.”

👏👏 Well freaking done!!!!!!! Whew! This is a must read!!!! 

The author did an amazing job with the world building. The attention and how descriptive and intense the writing is.... *Chefs kiss* I think I forgot to breathe towards the end. 

Our FMC Remmy is FIERCE!!!! So determined, strong, resilient. I fell in love with her courage instantly. She has accepted the challenge to endure the journey and face dangerous magical creatures to rescue the prince so she can provide for her family. 

Our MMC fae Prince Sterling. Held captive and tortured by the king... His own father! It takes a bit to get to his POV but when we dooo he's Soo broody at first (but can we really blame him?!?) him and Remmy don't exactly start off on the best of terms. However, the pull to her was undeniable and the chemistry was blooming. The slow burn is Soo satisfying. He becomes so protective. 😍 The yearning, tension, heartache. Ugghhh I need more! 

This has multiple POVs and I loved how we got to follow the side characters throughout their journeys. It added so much depth to the narrative. Honestly, all of their stories will tug at your heart strings. I found myself rooting for all them. The friendships built along the way... Full of loyalty. Absolutely incredible. I found myself growing attached to most of their POVS and wanted to read them just as much as I wanted Remmys and Sterlings. 

This is filled with adventure, survival, a growing romance... The jaw dropping twists!!!!  The world and the characters the author has built is truly phenomenal. I got immersed in it and just couldn't put this down. 

This one is officially added to my favorites of the year list. I devoured this. Such an emotional journey. I highly reccomend! I am beyond ready and excited for the second book!!!!! Need it now!! Seriously, like right now... I YELLED at that ending! 

I am super picky when it comes to this genre and I am happy to say this author is absolutely incredible and I will read anything R.C Perry writes. 

✔️ Resilient FMC
✔️Touch her and 💀
✔️Deadly trials
✔️tension 
✔️Closed door
✔️Caretaking 
✔️Fae/ dragons/ shape shifters
✔️Multiple pov
✔️Slow burn
✔️Enemies to lovers
✔️Found family
✔️Romantasy

Thank you for my ARC! I'm leaving this review voluntarily

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, the cover of this book is gorgeous. When my friend sent me this book as a gift because she loved it so much, I was really excited because I’d seen the author post about this one and it looked super interesting to me.

It took me a little bit to get into the story but once I did I barely put it down until I finished. One thing that I’m not sure I liked quite as much was all of the different viewpoints in the story. Instead of just the two main character’s viewpoints we have quite a few different first person POVs. (5 I think?) However, it was done well and I wasn’t too confused, though it would take me a few seconds sometimes to figure out whose POV we were reading about.

The magic system and world-building were really neat and the descriptions of the monsters/creatures were pretty epic. I loved the idea of the fae shifting into different creatures depending on which clan they were from. There were lions, bears, phoenixes, a dragon, and many others.

I liked our FMC Remmy. She was a strong, independent woman who cared so much about her family’s survival that she was willing to face all kinds of horrors to make a better life for them. Even if it meant going on an impossible journey to rescue a prince- a journey no woman had been able to make, and those who’d tried had died. And she did find herself in trouble a lot. It seemed like nearly every day of her journey there was some new horror awaiting her.

Sterling was a little bit obnoxious at times but I did like him. He tried a little too hard to keep his distance from Remmy in order to protect her, but he had a good heart and he meant well. He had a lot to work through and so many family issues as well as heartache and grief. I really felt bad for him and all he’d been through. His life seemed so hard and tortuous. He really softened up as time went on and I liked him more and more.

This is book one of The Valerian Chronicles and I’ll be interested to read what happens next as it does end on a bit of a cliffhanger.



CW: mild language, violence, mentions of abuse, death, animal death, attempted s3xual assault, mentions of nudity (to prevent hypothermia but nothing explicit), when characters “shift” they shed their clothes

Note: closed door

[Savanna Breazeal · Rating 4 out of 5]

From the Ashes is a debut novel, and wow, did it deliver!

Let’s get into what I loved about this book. First off, I thoroughly enjoyed how adventurous it was. I felt like I was on a LOTR journey and that’s something I will always seek out in a fantasy. RC Perry did a wonderful job immersing her readers into the world.

That brings me to my second aspect I loved, and that’s the world-building. I was able to picture where the characters were at and what was happening around them. What the world looked like and how it operated.

The third aspect I enjoyed was the multiple POV! This was done really well! I’m not usually a multiple POV girl but I loved it in this book. I think I loved it because I cared about every single character and I knew these characters POV were essential in pushing the book forward. I also wanted to know what was going to happen to them so I was never disappointed when I was back into their minds.

My one struggle was the romance between the main characters! There was a lot of back and forth and conflict that felt placed there when it didn’t to be placed. I understand the struggle and battling emotions you may not want but it started right from the beginning. So a little bit of an “insta-like but I strongly dislike you” vibe going on. I didn’t understand why they were rude to each other right away. It could just be a me thing and something I’m not into with romance. By the end, I started softening towards the way they were being toward one another and I’m curious how their feelings will develop going forward.

I also want to say there is no spice! I didn’t miss it. It wasn’t needed at all. There were enough scenes of attraction that made me giddy. So this is a great book if you want more of yearning in place of spice.

All in all, this was an amazing experience being a debut novel. I’m honestly floored because it doesn’t read like a debut novel. I will be reading the second book because I’m invested in so many of the characters and I genuinely want to know where she takes everything. Highly recommend!

[Mckay · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you love yearning, tension, and slow-burn romance with zero spice, this book is a must-read.

This is honestly a six-star read for me. From the Ashes by R.C. Perry is everything that’s super popular right now in romantasy, but it’s also incredibly unique and beautifully written. A huge personal bonus for me: there’s no spice, and I don’t even think there’s any cursing. Despite that, the romance and relationship are deeply compelling. The focus is on the pining, the yearning, the little moments, and the tension is immaculate.

If you could write an entire book around the hand-twitch scene from Pride and Prejudice, this would be it. If you love yearning, longing, and slow-burn tension, this book delivers in the best way. It’s written so well, and every interaction feels intentional.

Another aspect I absolutely loved - and thought was genius - is how the story starts. From the very first page, it goes from zero to one hundred with no context. You have no idea what’s happening or why, and that’s completely on purpose. As the story progresses, you gradually gain context, character development, and world-building. You grow to genuinely care about these characters in a way that feels natural and earned.

There’s no info-dumping. Instead, you get to know the characters the same way you get to know people in real life - through bits and pieces over time, slowly putting the puzzle together. That process creates a real emotional attachment, and it’s done so thoughtfully and authentically here.

The action is nonstop from the beginning. The story immediately pulls you in, and I truly never felt bored for a single moment. My attention was completely locked in from start to finish. The ending was perfectly written to pull you straight into the next book, and I genuinely cannot wait to read book two.

Six stars. No notes. Absolutely loved it. This is already one of my top reads of the year - and the year just started.

[Michaela | Reading in the Heartland · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great debut romantic fantasy. It had me captivated and kept me awake reading for hours. A girl living in poverty sees a chance to help her family when the evil king imprisons his son and says that whatever girl survives the wilds to rescue him will be queen. As Remmy goes on her journey, she meets a new friend and we have tones of The Lord of the Rings with her quest. Along the way she meets many dangers and is in fights with both man and beast and suffers greatly. However, Prince Sterling isn’t living a great life either. Constantly tortured and abused by his father and his guards for not having a clan (he does not have a shifter animal he shifts into), he is a dying prisoner in his own life. When these two finally meet, we get a bit of an enemies vibe. They suffer together and help each other off the mountain and slowly this slow burn romance heats up. I adore Sterlings heart for Remmy and how completely he adores her. This book is book 1 in a saga and I cannot wait for more. This fantasy world has a belief system with multiple gods so phrases such as “Oh gods” and “Holy gods” are common. You can see more content notes below. The romance in this book is just kisses, intimacy level 3.

Content warnings:
-language: many “oh gods,” “holy gods”, a few A**, and h***
-Naked in one bed scenes (to stave off hypothermia)
-Attempted sexual assault
-Abusive father
-Fights with man and beast and numerous injuries
-Supernatural elements in dark magic from a nefarious god

I received an eARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.