What do you think?
Rate this book
Ashes to Ashes
380 pages, Paperback
Published May 5, 2026
About the author
Hannah Hood Lucero
12 books119 followersHANNAH HOOD LUCERO is a wife, mom of three, Army veteran, and self-proclaimed word-slinger. While it is the brackish waters of the Mississippi Sound that flow through her veins, western North Carolina holds her heart. Her love for storytelling is the fruit of a lifetime of cultivation in the vibrant cultures of the Gulf Coast and the Blue Ridge Mountains. She currently resides in South Mississippi with her husband and three children on their ten-acre homestead. They have one dog, thirteen chickens, and at least fifty species of mosquitos, depending on the month of the year. When she isn’t in the garden, at the stove, or homeschooling, she can be found at her computer—just follow the sound of frenetic typing. Her motto is, “Draft, edit, read, repeat.”
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
May 17, 2026
How do these keep getting better and better? This romantic suspense story was great.
The first in a new series from Hannah Hood Lucero took me on a bunch of adventures that never let off the gas pedal from page one.
I enjoyed the characters' age range (right out of high school/college age) and that they had some great, thought-provoking conversations that will stay with me for a while.
Both Will and Phee (short for Phoenix) went through a good amount of growth, both in their respective relationships with Jesus (of which Hannah Hood Lucero weaves in seamlessly to the storyline), their relationship together, and their relationships with their families. I loved how both of them had to talk through hard things and not shy away from those hard conversations (I was constantly shouting, "Heck yes" in my head!).
The suspense was intense. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen or how the side characters were involved, as there were quite a few unexpected twists that left me second-guessing where I thought the story was going—not something that happens to me often.
Definitely recommend this fast-paced mystery with twists and turns that left my head spinning and my heart on fire. Well done, Hannah Hood Lucero.
The first in a new series from Hannah Hood Lucero took me on a bunch of adventures that never let off the gas pedal from page one.
I enjoyed the characters' age range (right out of high school/college age) and that they had some great, thought-provoking conversations that will stay with me for a while.
Both Will and Phee (short for Phoenix) went through a good amount of growth, both in their respective relationships with Jesus (of which Hannah Hood Lucero weaves in seamlessly to the storyline), their relationship together, and their relationships with their families. I loved how both of them had to talk through hard things and not shy away from those hard conversations (I was constantly shouting, "Heck yes" in my head!).
The suspense was intense. I wasn’t sure what was going to happen or how the side characters were involved, as there were quite a few unexpected twists that left me second-guessing where I thought the story was going—not something that happens to me often.
Definitely recommend this fast-paced mystery with twists and turns that left my head spinning and my heart on fire. Well done, Hannah Hood Lucero.
Read
April 10, 2026Fans of the Sons of Vigilance, you do not want to miss the next generation!
July 30, 2026
Ok, how do you review such a powerful book in a few measly words?
This book hooked me from the first paragraph. In fact, I had to force myself to put it down. It made me laugh, nod, think, and sit on the edge of my seat.
I've read a few Hannah Hood Lucero books now, but I think this one's my favorite so far. Such a powerful book!
This book hooked me from the first paragraph. In fact, I had to force myself to put it down. It made me laugh, nod, think, and sit on the edge of my seat.
I've read a few Hannah Hood Lucero books now, but I think this one's my favorite so far. Such a powerful book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
This Christian military romantic suspense by Hannah Hood Lucero delivers everything fans of the Christian romantic suspense genre want: faith-filled character growth, twists and turns that leave you on the edge of your seat, realistic hope, and a clean romance.
Phoenix Flynn has just graduated high school when revelations about her past collide with present danger. Will, a college student still processing his own difficult upbringing with an alcoholic father and an often-absent mother, finds himself drawn to Phoenix even as both face situations that force them to grow up fast. The story opens with a gorgeous beach setting before launching into intense twists that kept me engaged throughout.
What makes this book shine is how well Lucero balances darkness with light. Phoenix's spunk and intelligence make her a compelling character, and watching her faith deepen while she learns to accept her worth and place in her family was moving. Will's spiritual journey runs alongside his learning to care for those he loves in mature, sacrificial ways. I appreciated that not every character becomes a Christian and not everything wraps up neatly, yet the ending radiates genuine hope. Lucero weaves faith naturally through both intense moments and lighter scenes, never letting either dominate. Fans of the Sons of Vigilance series will enjoy seeing familiar faces, though this works perfectly as a standalone. Phoenix's family rallying around each other and these young people provides beautiful moments of support.
My only heartache is knowing what these characters endure at such young ages. Their pain feels real and sometimes heavy, but it is always with purpose and balance with lighter moments.
Highly recommended for Christian romantic suspense readers who want authentic faith journeys, realistic hope, and a HEA.
Phoenix Flynn has just graduated high school when revelations about her past collide with present danger. Will, a college student still processing his own difficult upbringing with an alcoholic father and an often-absent mother, finds himself drawn to Phoenix even as both face situations that force them to grow up fast. The story opens with a gorgeous beach setting before launching into intense twists that kept me engaged throughout.
What makes this book shine is how well Lucero balances darkness with light. Phoenix's spunk and intelligence make her a compelling character, and watching her faith deepen while she learns to accept her worth and place in her family was moving. Will's spiritual journey runs alongside his learning to care for those he loves in mature, sacrificial ways. I appreciated that not every character becomes a Christian and not everything wraps up neatly, yet the ending radiates genuine hope. Lucero weaves faith naturally through both intense moments and lighter scenes, never letting either dominate. Fans of the Sons of Vigilance series will enjoy seeing familiar faces, though this works perfectly as a standalone. Phoenix's family rallying around each other and these young people provides beautiful moments of support.
My only heartache is knowing what these characters endure at such young ages. Their pain feels real and sometimes heavy, but it is always with purpose and balance with lighter moments.
Highly recommended for Christian romantic suspense readers who want authentic faith journeys, realistic hope, and a HEA.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“This is the second best day of my life.” Phee elbowed her redheaded cousin, Trip, just outside Rosman High School. In less than half an hour, she’d have her diploma in hand and her whole future—whatever it entailed—ahead of her. Could she really leave her home and family to attend college? Yes. Would it break Dad’s heart if she withdrew from Vanderbilt and opted for the art history program at George Washington University in D.C.? Possibly, though he’d never tell her as much. He was her biggest cheerleader and had been since the day they met."
Phee (Phoenix) was ready for her new start. Until everything fell apart in an unexpected turn of events. The truth can hurt, especially when it is not revealed in a careful way.
After taking some time to regroup, Phee realizes that even in the midst of her grief, she needs to be around her family as they all prepare to say goodbye to one that they love. She knew there would be tears. But she did not expect to make a new friend. Or that suddenly danger would be involved. Are the revealed secrets going to cause even more pain? All Phee knows is that this situation is going to require all of the Flynn family to help her find a new way to live.
This is a coming of age title with plenty of family, friendship, faith and even an appropriate YA romance. The pacing is perfect. Other parts will make the reader smile. This author is one of my favorites. I loved that this book is connected to her first series, "Sons of Vigilance." One could definitely read this book without reading the other titles first. But I am SO glad that I have read them all.
I highly recommend this book. So glad that I read an early copy. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
Phee (Phoenix) was ready for her new start. Until everything fell apart in an unexpected turn of events. The truth can hurt, especially when it is not revealed in a careful way.
After taking some time to regroup, Phee realizes that even in the midst of her grief, she needs to be around her family as they all prepare to say goodbye to one that they love. She knew there would be tears. But she did not expect to make a new friend. Or that suddenly danger would be involved. Are the revealed secrets going to cause even more pain? All Phee knows is that this situation is going to require all of the Flynn family to help her find a new way to live.
This is a coming of age title with plenty of family, friendship, faith and even an appropriate YA romance. The pacing is perfect. Other parts will make the reader smile. This author is one of my favorites. I loved that this book is connected to her first series, "Sons of Vigilance." One could definitely read this book without reading the other titles first. But I am SO glad that I have read them all.
I highly recommend this book. So glad that I read an early copy. I wanted to read and review it. All opinions are my own.
August 13, 2026
OVERALL STAR RATING: 5/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
I don’t even know where to begin with this one. From the very first page to the very last, Hannah Hood Lucero completely pulled me into this story. I wasn’t just reading this book… I was FEELING it. Bottom line is I tried this new-to-me author and I think I’ve found myself a new favorite!
This story had everything I love… emotional depth, gritty family drama, unexpected twists, and a suspense plot that kept escalating until the very end. I was constantly invested, and the second half especially had me flying through the pages trying to uncover what would happen next.
One of my favorite parts was the authenticity woven throughout the entire story. The characters felt real, the dialogue felt natural, and the relationships were beautifully written. As someone who doesn’t need romance in a book to enjoy it (and who can be very picky about romance making me cringe), I can confidently say this romance was Alicia-approved. Phee and Will’s relationship was built on honesty, trust, and emotional safety rather than just flirting, and I absolutely loved that.
I also appreciated how the faith elements were handled. They felt genuine and beautifully woven into the characters’ lives without ever feeling forced or preachy.
Between the found family, the unforgettable characters, the meaningful message, and a plot full of twists I never saw coming, Ashes to Ashes was an incredible read. I am so excited this is only the beginning of the series because I cannot wait to see where Hannah takes these characters next!
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
I don’t even know where to begin with this one. From the very first page to the very last, Hannah Hood Lucero completely pulled me into this story. I wasn’t just reading this book… I was FEELING it. Bottom line is I tried this new-to-me author and I think I’ve found myself a new favorite!
This story had everything I love… emotional depth, gritty family drama, unexpected twists, and a suspense plot that kept escalating until the very end. I was constantly invested, and the second half especially had me flying through the pages trying to uncover what would happen next.
One of my favorite parts was the authenticity woven throughout the entire story. The characters felt real, the dialogue felt natural, and the relationships were beautifully written. As someone who doesn’t need romance in a book to enjoy it (and who can be very picky about romance making me cringe), I can confidently say this romance was Alicia-approved. Phee and Will’s relationship was built on honesty, trust, and emotional safety rather than just flirting, and I absolutely loved that.
I also appreciated how the faith elements were handled. They felt genuine and beautifully woven into the characters’ lives without ever feeling forced or preachy.
Between the found family, the unforgettable characters, the meaningful message, and a plot full of twists I never saw coming, Ashes to Ashes was an incredible read. I am so excited this is only the beginning of the series because I cannot wait to see where Hannah takes these characters next!
*For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
May 8, 2026
I loved this coming of age/new adult Christian Romantic Suspense! First of all, I love Hannah’s writing style; the conversations sound real and natural. While this is a stand alone, with Will Sanders and Phee Flynn the MCs, I think reading this book will be an even more enjoyable experience if you’ve read Dereliction of the Heart, where we first meet Phee as a little girl. Phee’s adoptive dad, Declan, loves his daughter fiercely and is so protective of her; their relationship is one of my favourite things about this book. The whole Flynn family dynamics and relationships were also so fun to read about.
Phee is a sweet and innocent and no filter girl, and the romance is fast paced. I loved Phee and Will’s text conversations. The book also has strong faith elements and the Gospel is shared in a simple, succinct way, with Faith playing an important role in the characters’ lives.
Ashes to Ashes is a perfect blend of romance, close family relationships, mystery and suspense with twists, with a bit of former military thrown in.
Phee is a sweet and innocent and no filter girl, and the romance is fast paced. I loved Phee and Will’s text conversations. The book also has strong faith elements and the Gospel is shared in a simple, succinct way, with Faith playing an important role in the characters’ lives.
Ashes to Ashes is a perfect blend of romance, close family relationships, mystery and suspense with twists, with a bit of former military thrown in.
May 26, 2026
Hannah Hood Lucero does it again. Ashes to Ashes might be my favorite book of hers. I LOVE me some Flynn family. Like, they might be one of my favorite fictional families ever. I was devastated when I finished the Sons of Vigilance series, but squealed when I saw Hannah was starting the Legacy of Vigilance series about the next generation of Flynns.
Ashes to Ashes was like a warm hug with your family with the butterflies of new romance. Add to it the grief of lost loved ones and sickness, the mystery of grace and mercy, and the (sometimes extreme) devotion to family and you have multiple nights when somehow, the clock skips straight from 10PM to 1:30AM 😬. Not sure how that happens…
I fell more in love with the Flynns through Ashes to Ashes. I loved seeing more of Erin (who is the coolest grandma) and Conor’s family. Even though this novel is about Phee, I saw lots of favorites. But, I will say that it is extremely helpful to read Sons of Vigilance first.
Way to set up the next book in the series, Hannah 😳 I can’t wait!!
Ashes to Ashes was like a warm hug with your family with the butterflies of new romance. Add to it the grief of lost loved ones and sickness, the mystery of grace and mercy, and the (sometimes extreme) devotion to family and you have multiple nights when somehow, the clock skips straight from 10PM to 1:30AM 😬. Not sure how that happens…
I fell more in love with the Flynns through Ashes to Ashes. I loved seeing more of Erin (who is the coolest grandma) and Conor’s family. Even though this novel is about Phee, I saw lots of favorites. But, I will say that it is extremely helpful to read Sons of Vigilance first.
Way to set up the next book in the series, Hannah 😳 I can’t wait!!
May 8, 2026
What an amazing read. I loved the Sons of Vigilance Series, and this series about their offspring promises to be even better than that awesome series. I loved Phee and Will, they were amazing and likable characters. Great plot, and I loved that some of the originals were in this book.
I loved the humor that Lucero spread throughout the book, especially Declan's reactions and stuff he said about Will dating his daughter. This author has wowed me from the first book I read by her, and she just keeps getting better with each book. This is what Christian fiction should be.
I loved the humor that Lucero spread throughout the book, especially Declan's reactions and stuff he said about Will dating his daughter. This author has wowed me from the first book I read by her, and she just keeps getting better with each book. This is what Christian fiction should be.
May 28, 2026
Ashes to Ashes is a fascinating, fast paced dive into how life throws us curveballs even
when we have lived, in our estimation, an ideal life. At the same time, it paints a picture of
how a life seemingly upside down and out of control can be righted through the
encouragement of others and learning about a God who cares for each of us individually.
Phoenix and Will’s stories collide, and the suspense of the outcome will keep you reading
late into the night
when we have lived, in our estimation, an ideal life. At the same time, it paints a picture of
how a life seemingly upside down and out of control can be righted through the
encouragement of others and learning about a God who cares for each of us individually.
Phoenix and Will’s stories collide, and the suspense of the outcome will keep you reading
late into the night
June 1, 2026
Hannah does it again!
I love reading Hannah Hood-Lucero’s books! They always have me turning the page trying to figure out who’s behind everything.
We all knew Phee’s story but there were so many layers we didn’t know.
Then the boy next door coming to the rescue. And of course Flynn brothers doing what they do! Can’t wait for the next one!
I love reading Hannah Hood-Lucero’s books! They always have me turning the page trying to figure out who’s behind everything.
We all knew Phee’s story but there were so many layers we didn’t know.
Then the boy next door coming to the rescue. And of course Flynn brothers doing what they do! Can’t wait for the next one!
June 17, 2026
If this book has taught me anything, it’s that Lucero is a PRO at character voice. I absolutely adored Phee’s character, and Will was such a steady sweetheart. The plot was GRIPPING, and now I’m on pins and needles waiting for Shelly’s book. But in the meantime, time to read Luke’s story in As You Were! 🇺🇸
July 17, 2026
If you’ve read Hannah’s Sons of Vigilance series, you’ll enjoy meeting the next generation of Flynns along with all the familiar faces. If you haven’t, you absolutely need to before reading this one. The whole family comes together in another high stakes suspense that doesn’t end like you might expect.
May 15, 2026
This is a really interesting story! I loved how realistically flawed and relatable the characters were and the overall story had me hooked from the first page.
I received this book from the author - all opinions are my own.
I received this book from the author - all opinions are my own.
August 20, 2026
So good!
Love Christian romantic suspense and Hannah Hood Lucero delivers all the romance and tension every time! This was so good, but now I have to go back and read the rest of the Flynn stories. Can't wait!
Love Christian romantic suspense and Hannah Hood Lucero delivers all the romance and tension every time! This was so good, but now I have to go back and read the rest of the Flynn stories. Can't wait!
August 29, 2026
Kidnappings, trackers, and Flynns - oh my!
I absolutely love when all the Flynns are together and adding the next generation is making these books even better! Seeing Declan (from Dereliction of the Heart) as he navigates Phee being an adult was priceless. It made for such great moments. Nana, Erin Flynn, steals the show every time she steps onto the page. Every book makes me want to learn more about her.
This book has it all:
- surprising suspense
- short, powerful messages
- moments of grief
- laugh out loud comments
Five stars from me. Will read again.
I absolutely love when all the Flynns are together and adding the next generation is making these books even better! Seeing Declan (from Dereliction of the Heart) as he navigates Phee being an adult was priceless. It made for such great moments. Nana, Erin Flynn, steals the show every time she steps onto the page. Every book makes me want to learn more about her.
This book has it all:
- surprising suspense
- short, powerful messages
- moments of grief
- laugh out loud comments
Five stars from me. Will read again.
May 29, 2026
Yay for more Flynn family stories!!!
June 5, 2026
Hard to put down and great suspense. Loved the family dynamic of the Flynns and the romance of Phee and Will was cute, especially with Declan as the father dynamic.
June 18, 2026
I read it in less than 24 hours and now I'm sad I reached the end of the series so far for the sons of Vigilance.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews