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Ash & Hollow: A Raven and Sparrow Novel
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Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews
March 3, 2026
Raven & Sparrow book 1
I have a hard time reviewing books because they are extremely personal and complex for each individual reader. What I loved you might question. What I questioned will be another's absolute favorite book. Just so you know, this one is high on my list of new favorites. I've read it through twice now. Once to read it as I do with all new books: to understand the plot, to feel the story with the characters, and to enjoy is complexities. The second time was to find the purpose behind the cadence that is as important as the story itself, to pick up on nuances I missed the first time, and to live the story as it was meant to be lived. Once to read the words, the second time to read it in the technicolor of my mind that makes this book come alive for me.
The first time through, I was kinda confused and waited for the storyline to become like other books. But, I realized as I delved deeper into the story that this was the perfect way for this story to be. There's a cadence to the story that fits, that belongs, that is new to me. After a few chapters, I looked for the cadence, felt for it as if it was the heartbeat the story was created for, as if I was part of the story. I belonged. I was one with the book. The images the author created with this unique format and use of space became familiar and at the same time led to a story I couldn't put down. I was drawn into it in a way I wasn't expecting.
We are introduced to the main characters and the main room of the book in very interesting ways. Their personalities develop the way their friendships develop. I love the evolving room they've discovered and how it provides them the safety they need to grow into the unique people they are meant to become. It evolves as someone new is accepted, or not. It provides in ways they didn't know they needed. I look forward to how it continues to evolve and accept others, or not, in the next books of the series. I purposely didn't share much about the characters or the plot of the book. I want them to resonate with you the way they did with me.
Now that I have to wait for the next book to be available on Amazon or Goodreads, I think I'll hunker down into my comfy chair and read it again. Because I really want to.
I have a hard time reviewing books because they are extremely personal and complex for each individual reader. What I loved you might question. What I questioned will be another's absolute favorite book. Just so you know, this one is high on my list of new favorites. I've read it through twice now. Once to read it as I do with all new books: to understand the plot, to feel the story with the characters, and to enjoy is complexities. The second time was to find the purpose behind the cadence that is as important as the story itself, to pick up on nuances I missed the first time, and to live the story as it was meant to be lived. Once to read the words, the second time to read it in the technicolor of my mind that makes this book come alive for me.
The first time through, I was kinda confused and waited for the storyline to become like other books. But, I realized as I delved deeper into the story that this was the perfect way for this story to be. There's a cadence to the story that fits, that belongs, that is new to me. After a few chapters, I looked for the cadence, felt for it as if it was the heartbeat the story was created for, as if I was part of the story. I belonged. I was one with the book. The images the author created with this unique format and use of space became familiar and at the same time led to a story I couldn't put down. I was drawn into it in a way I wasn't expecting.
We are introduced to the main characters and the main room of the book in very interesting ways. Their personalities develop the way their friendships develop. I love the evolving room they've discovered and how it provides them the safety they need to grow into the unique people they are meant to become. It evolves as someone new is accepted, or not. It provides in ways they didn't know they needed. I look forward to how it continues to evolve and accept others, or not, in the next books of the series. I purposely didn't share much about the characters or the plot of the book. I want them to resonate with you the way they did with me.
Now that I have to wait for the next book to be available on Amazon or Goodreads, I think I'll hunker down into my comfy chair and read it again. Because I really want to.
April 27, 2026
It is an enjoyable read that earns a solid 4-star rating. The book offers a well-paced narrative that kept me engaged from beginning to end. While no particular character or theme emerged as a personal favorite, the overall story was compelling and satisfying.
Newson's writing style is smooth and accessible, making 'Ash & Hollow' an easy book to get lost in. The plot unfolds at a steady pace, revealing new details and twists that maintained my interest throughout. The world-building is well-executed, creating a believable backdrop for the events of the story.
This book is a worthwhile read for those looking for an engaging and well-crafted story. While it may not have elements that deeply resonate on a personal level, it delivers a consistently enjoyable experience. I would recommend this book to readers who appreciate a solid, entertaining read."
Newson's writing style is smooth and accessible, making 'Ash & Hollow' an easy book to get lost in. The plot unfolds at a steady pace, revealing new details and twists that maintained my interest throughout. The world-building is well-executed, creating a believable backdrop for the events of the story.
This book is a worthwhile read for those looking for an engaging and well-crafted story. While it may not have elements that deeply resonate on a personal level, it delivers a consistently enjoyable experience. I would recommend this book to readers who appreciate a solid, entertaining read."
April 10, 2026
Ash & Hollow completely drew me into its world in a way I didn’t expect. From the very beginning, the atmosphere feels alive-mysterious, layered, and quietly intense. Vicki’s vibrant presence contrasts so beautifully with the darker undertones of the story, making what happens to her later hit even harder. The interconnected characters, especially Mara, Julia, and Lucien, are written with such care that you can feel the weight of their shared destiny long before it’s fully revealed. The magic system and mythology are rich without being overwhelming, and the slow unveiling of the Academy’s secrets kept me turning pages. This is a deeply imaginative and emotional YA fantasy, and I would absolutely recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with haunting, magical worlds.
May 1, 2026
Really loved reading this book. Reminded me of Harry Potter. It's pretty suspenseful. I loved how the author built the story.
Displaying 1 - 4 of 4 reviews