A Dream of Ashes

Chronicles of the Modern Mystics #1

by Orlando A. Sanchez

Mystics.Magic.Murder.
A Fire Mystic.A Ruthless Killer. A Dark Secret.
Ava James is a fire mystic with the Mystic Investigative Division. As a branch of the Enclave, a worldwide mystic organization, the MID is feared, respected and reviled.
When the half-charred body of a Mystic is found, the Enclave sends her to investigate the strange death. Ava finds that all the clues point to the killer being a fire mystic, one of her own. Accused by the Enclave of working with the killer she must solve the case before a secret buried in her past is revealed and destroys her world.
Can she save herself? Will she find the murderer?
If you like hardcore, fast-moving action, complex mystical powers and an unstoppable heroine, then you’ll love Orlando A. Sanchez’ thrilling new series: Chronicles of the Modern Mystics.

Genres: Urban Fantasy

227 pages, Paperback

First published April 27, 2016

About the author

Orlando Sanchez has been writing ever since his teens when he was immersed in creating scenarios for playing Dungeon and Dragons with his friends every weekend. An avid reader, his influences are too numerous to list here. Some of the most prominent are: J.R.R. Tolkien, Jim Butcher, Kat Richardson, Terry Brooks, Piers Anthony, Lee Child, George Lucas, Andrew Vachss, and Barry Eisler to name a few in no particular order.
The worlds of his books are urban settings with a twist of the paranormal lurking just behind the scenes and generous doses of magic, martial arts, and mayhem.
Aside from writing, he holds a 2nd and 3rd Dan in two distinct styles of Karate. If not training, he is studying some aspect of the martial arts or martial arts philosophy.
He currently resides in Queens, NY with his family and can often be found in the local Starbucks where most of his writing is done.
Please visit his site at: www.OrlandoASanchez.com for more information about his books and upcoming releases.

Reviews

[Cyril Patrick Feerick · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Dream of Ashes by Orlando Sanchez is a tense fantasy-thriller. A mysterious plot, surrounding Ava, who works in the Mystic Investigative Division. But when the Division turns on her, she goes on the run. Addictive is one word that I'd use to describe this novel. I wish I could say more but given that there is a lot that can’t be said because of spoilers, I would say its a story rich in detail, full of the sights, sounds, and smells that make you feel as though you're actually there. One of those books that was just a joy to lose myself in. Some may hate cliffhangers but this actually worked for this book. I can’t wait to read book 2, I'm wondering what this author has up his sleeve next.

[M Hamed · Rating 2 out of 5]

I'm all for abrupt,short ,to the point ,no romance .but even for me
That was too light
Going to a fight against supremely advanced evil dude with no planning,just go for it girlfrimd
Coming later on with a something to defeat the evil dude in a blink of an eye

Even for me ,that was too much

[Lulu [at] Reckless Reading · Rating 3 out of 5]

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Kick ass heroines racing to exonerate themselves is much beloved trope/genre for me. I mean, I’ve loved reading all about Anita Blake’s antics (before it all went to hell in a harem), as well as Sookie Stackhouse’s adventures. So, when I was approached to review A Dream of Ashes by Orlando A Sanchez, I was really excited! Not only was I getting the kick ass heroine, but also a book written by a local author! The novel was certainly fast-paced, sometimes a bit too much so, but the characters were engaging, and the world was interesting, if a bit lacking.

For such a short novel, just shy of 300 pages, the plot moved quickly. There was never a dull point in the story and everything that happened was for a reason that quickly propelled the story. This was great, but did have its downfall, mainly being that there wasn’t enough time for the reader to catch their breath. So much happened in so little time that everything seemed to blur together with information not having enough time to sink in.

This small issue bleeds into the larger issue of world building. It’s certain that author Orlando Sanchez knows this world he’s creating. It feels solid. But as a reader, I felt lost. I didn’t know what the enclaves were, what the mystics were, what those special sticks were about. If the action and plot were slowed down just a little to offer some world building explanations, the book would have been tremendously improved.

Character-wise, however, Sanchez was right on point. Ava was strong, but still had her weaknesses and moments of vulnerability. She wasn’t a super-woman, and I loved this. Ghost and his daughter were mysterious and I’d love to know more about them. I’d love to know more about warders and mystics in general, which goes back to slowing the book down a little just go give more world information.

A Dream of Ashes by Orlando A Sanchez is a good first book in a series. The action seems real and well thought out, and the characters are relateable and well developed. The pacing is fast, but hopefully subsequent books in the series will slow it down a little to help readers get a firmer grasp of the world Sanchez has created because it looks to be a good one!

// I received this title for free in exchange for an honest review //

[Pallavi Sareen · Rating 4 out of 5]

An action-packed, fast paced novel with mystical elements that feels like watching a Jason Bourne movie, at first and then turns into a battle manga. Secrets are revealed, Ava is framed for murders she didn't commit and no one can be trusted. I loved the fight-scenes and there were so many. This new Mystic world is intriguing as well, I just wish it was better explained. Our main protagonist Ava is a badass fire Mystic who works for the MID, so when mytics start getting killed, she is sent to investigate but since she is the only fire mystic in town, all blame shifts on her. So now she's running from MID,fighting enforcers and figuring out who framed her all at once. Even with so much happening all at once, I never once felt that the writing was rushed, in fact, it was a pretty well-written book.
Despite it's darkness, I loved my city, but on days like this she was a cheap whore. A facade of beauty stripped away by the bright light of death, revealing the ugly truth to those brave or stupid enough to look closer.
When I saw the book, I was bewitched by the beautiful cover and when I started reading it, it barely took me 2 hours to finish it. I was turning pages as if my life depended on it. And where the story started as a modern detective novel (with Mystics), it turned into a Japanese action movie and I enjoyed every minute of it. I just wish to get my hands on the sequel as soon as I can.

(I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.)

[Gwen · Rating 4 out of 5]

****This book was given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review***
This is the second book I have read from this author and can with all honesty say that this was the better of the two stories, it had much more flesh on the bone with a great tension and engaging characters that I enjoyed immensely.
Ava, our leading lady is one of the few Fire Mystic's who together with other

Water, Wind and Earth Mystics act as a sort of magic police to deal with paranormal issues.


We start the story with a murder that soon descends into something more personal, mix in a Japanese mafia undertone, a mysterious man and great magic fueled action to make for a helluva ride. Please note this book doesn't have a romantic element, it leans to more "Sword & Sorcery" but who knows for future books. This one's a keeper and I will be looking out for the next one.

[Boundless Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was freaking awesome! It was non-stop action from the first page, not to mention, one hell of a kickass heroin. I couldn’t put it down and finished the book in one sitting. I have never read anything by Orlando Sanchez before, but if A Dream Of Ashes is any indication of his work, he has a new fan in me. I cannot wait for book two of this series. If you like fast paced urban fantasy, with a strong female lead, this is a book for you. LOVED IT!...Sara

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[Chocomeiske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an action packed urban fantasy and the paperback is the cutest pocket size. Full review to come.

[Kat Mandu · Rating 3 out of 5]

In A Dream of Ashes, readers are introduced to Ava, a mystic with the ability to create and manipulate fire. Right from the beginning of the book, she’s been framed for several vicious murders she didn’t commit, not to mention she’s being hunted by a group of obviously wicked mystics trying to kill her. As she tries to navigate her way through a unique New York City without getting caught or killed, she’s gotta figure out where her uncle is and just who he was taken by. But getting mixed up in the affairs of mystics much more powerful than her is not what she intended, so she’ll need every ally and skill she can get.

Likes: This really is full of action and cool visuals, so it reads like a fast-paced movie with lots of awesome graphics. Plus, you know, the majority of the characters are Japanese, so ninjas. Either way, I really loved the easy-to-read flow of the book and I was quite fond of the quirky one-liners Ava gets to dish out.

What didn’t grab me: Like my fellow reviewer, this book was lacking in that really strong world-building that really would have made this a five for me. I had the feeling that the more the author wrote, the more ideas he came up with, which is nice but makes the beginning lackluster compared to the final moments. I would get caught up in the action but was left wondering just what Enclaves were and what Enforcers did and how everything worked out. Even if the info isn’t dumped at the beginning and spread out in hints throughout the book, it would have improved that clear structure of Ava’s New York/Japan aka “Mystic world.” I just didn’t get much that would help me really understand how everything works.

The only other thing is that there is quite a few organizations that come into play, plus numerous allies. I wish I could have gotten some more details on them as well, so I didn’t have to go back and ask myself “Okay, what did these guys do again?”

I just think this needs a clearer focus, but overall, I was impressed and give this three stars.

[Chriss Buchanan · Rating 5 out of 5]

For those who love a fast pace!

While this is a mystery and it draws you in with details and breadcrumbs, it also very much an action adventure. You get to think and puzzle out the clues while Ava runs and fights for her life. Orlando masterfully weaves it all together. I hope we return to Ava's world in the future!

[Darla Hallgren · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lost some sleep with this one. The action never stops. The world of mystics a little different than any I've read before. Most the characters are mysterious and keep you intrigued. Look forward to what comes next in this story. It's a great read. Have yet to disappointed in any of Sanchezs books.

[Gary van Zyl · Rating 5 out of 5]

ave ava

out the gates the ebb and flow of the story caught my imagination and , the pace drew me deeper into it's weave willingly. wry humor abounds as usual with the right amount swagger and self doubt. enough loose ends to drive a cat crazy and i cannot wait for more

[MLC · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think what makes Orlando's books great is his ability grow a character. He introduces you to them and quickly let's you know who they are. Then you see subtle changes in them and it becomes a journey to see who the character becomes.

[David Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great new series

Yet another series that I’m going to waiting for the next book . At this rate I can’t see Mr Sanchez having any time off between now and 2031.
More great characters to add to his list
Read it You won’t regret it

[Mr J.S.Varney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good flow and balance

Another great book with a strong story line and characters that engage the reader and draw them in. Can’t wait to see what happens next!

[sharon davidson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great action

Not everyone gets blown up twice in one day. Fast action. Interesting powers. Almost like Shadowrun but no dragons in control.

[Sandramckinney · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good

I thoroughly enjoyed this book I'm just sorry it didn't have a ending or any sign of one coming I feel as if I was left hanging please get a book two out soon!

[Brad Griffeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well written

A well written tale leaves you wanting more of the same. This accomplished that with flying colors. Orlando Sanchez remains a good story tel!er!

[Renee Penn · Rating 5 out of 5]

great book

This book is a great read. Lots of action and fast paced. I couldn’t put it down. Thank you Mr Sanchez.

[Escape Into Reading · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before I start my review, I want to thank Orlando Sanchez for allowing me to review A Dream of Ashes.

**All opinions stated in this review are mine and mine alone. I received A Dream of Ashes from Orlando Sanchez for free for my honest and unbiased review**

Now, onto my review:

This is my first book I have ever read by Orlando Sanchez and I have got to say, it was GOOD. Like insanely good.

From the beginning, when we first meet Ava kicking some bad guys ass, the action is non stop. I told BK that not only would this make a great fantasy movie BUT it would make a great action film…because of all the explosions from the wards. Of course, he didn’t understand but still.

The story was pretty good too. Ava is a fire mystic, which is rare, who is working for the MID (Mystic Investigative Division). She is sent to a crime scene where a fire mystic is burned up and fingers start pointing towards her. But when the head of the MID is injured in a blast at a bar, on his way to meet Ava, she is considered the main suspect and the chase is on. And oh boy, what a chase it is. Ava is chased all over NYC until she finds temporary asylum with her Sensei and then she learns some startling facts about her uncle and herself.

The book really picks up when she heads to Japan (and how she heads there was totally awesome) to help her uncle Seb, a Void mystic. And oh boy, the action gets better.

The ending was a bit of a cliff hanger (thanks to Seb’s revelation). We all know how I hate cliffhangers but this actually worked for this book. I can’t wait to read book 2 and see if it is as action packed as book 1.

How many stars will I give A Dream of Ashes? 3.5/4

Why? It was a very fast paced read (I read it in one sitting) that had a ton of action in it.

Will I reread it? Yes

Will I recommend to family and friends? Yes

Age range: Adult

Why? No sex scenes but tons of very descriptive violence.

[Luna Lovebooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review


“Go lick your wounds. When I see you next I will erase your existence.’ He turned and walked away as the sphere turned opaque and shifted us away from Nezu. We are going to die.”

Likes: This book is fast paced and action packed! Much like poor Ava, the reader doesn’t get to stop and rest. The characters and world are interesting, if not fully developed. Ava was resilient, but still vulnerable and had moments of weakness. I love the fact that she is strong but not super woman. The mysterious Ghost and his daughter are two characters I’d like to get to know better. I would also love to know more about warders and mystics in general. This may slow down the book a bit, but it would also back up the world building.

Dislikes: I feel there are too many unanswered questions, even if this is the first book in the series. The cover is part of what drew me to pick up this book. But when I received my copy the cover is very pixilated and loses some of its beauty. I’m am sure that as a writer Sanchez knows the world he is creating. It feels solid, but as a reader I was lost. There isn’t much information given about enclaves, mystics, or those special sticks. I feel that the plot should have slowed down to give some more world building to the readers.

Over all I give this book 4 mystics.

[Lynda Stevens]

I have to admit, I have encountered a lot of stories like this recently, more than I could wish for. There is a tough young heroine, working on the front line of active police service who gets framed by mysterious enemies for homicidal crimes she did not commit. She then has to both clear her name and take care of her enemies, in the process learning something about her past and destiny.

Often, these come in either fantasy or SF dress. Here, it all comes ín paranormal paraphernalia. The heroine Ava is a mystic possessing paranormal powers over the elementáris of Fire, where others are proficient on Air or Earth. Many buildings are protection with magical sygils, or wards.

Other than that, this is a world of more usual underground landmarks involving police, powerful cartels of crime and pubs. The action is fast-paced as Ava lurches from one real or more psychic shoot out after another.

No background is given to the world Ava and her friend and foes inhabit. The storytelling is all about total immersion, meanwhile hitting the ground running. And there is more to come in future sequels.

Not.really my cup of tea, as it is all action át the expense of massíve character development, atmosphere and so on. If you are young and like raw action, you should.like this though...

[Cheryl M-M · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ava James is a fire mystic and part of the Mystic Investigative Division. In one fell swoop her world is turned upside down when she becomes the hunted instead of the hunter. Someone is committing crimes and leaving her mystic brand as a calling card.

The Enclave is full of prejudiced mystic hating individuals who take great pleasure in bringing down any mystic, especially one that is supposed to be part of their association.

Ava finds herself thrust into the complex secrets of her family dynamics and more importantly her latent talents. Keeping everything hidden from her might not have been the right decision in hindsight.

Sanchez has created a complex structure of elemental powers, family clans and the magical vs the non-magical members of society.

It is a fast-paced urban fantasy with a lot of potential. I do think Sanchez could do with adding a bit of wit or sarcasm to spice things up and give his characters a little more depth. Don’t get me wrong though, A Dream of Ashes is a good read, but it is a safe one, despite the wealth of creative ideas.
*I received a copy of this book courtesy of the author.*

[Mandy Walkden-Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

A riveting read is this first book of the series.

Ava James, Mystic Investigator, finds herself at the centre of the action when a series of bizarre murders begins. Her problems escalate when it appears to everyone, including her friends and colleagues, that it is she who is the culprit.

There is no lack of action in this story, with some terrific fight scenes, explosions, general mayhem and some impressive magical demolitions! Not a totally sweet and cosy world, but fun to visit for a time.

Seamless writing, an intriguing magic system and some very likeable, and unusual, characters together with a suspenseful plot, made this a book that was extremely difficult to put down. The very definition of a page-turner!

Hope the sequel is on the near horizon as I want to find out what drama this kick-ass heroine finds herself embroiled in next.

I received a copy of this book from the author in return for my honest review.
Strangely, this appears to be the only book by this author that wasn't already in my library. His Warrior of the Way series is most definitely worth checking out.

[Susan Campbell · Rating 5 out of 5]

My kind of book!
I love action books that include myth and mystery, magic and adventure. This one hit all the spots for me and if you have read Terry Brooks, Tolkein, etc, this one is right up your street.
You will love the way he has created the characters, loving the heroine Ava, and hating the enemy, and in my case found it very hard to put down, as I always needed to know what happens next. This one was another of the books that kept me reading until my eyes dropped, sometime in the early hours even knowing I had to go to work!!
The characters are full of life, action is very well done, with just enough humour to stop it becoming too dark. The mystical side is very well thought out and you become part of the story, urging Ava on to find the answers to the questions that leave you wanting more.
Only one bad comment - When is the next one out?? Hopefully not too long..........Please :-)

[Maryann Sims · Rating 5 out of 5]

We find Ava, the little baby born in the prequel, Flame of Ashes, all grown up now and working for MID. She has come into her powers and is the only fire mystic in town. That is why when ​other mystic start being killed by a fire mystic, everyone turns on Ava.

The only help she can get is from Buck with the magical mystery bar with an even more magical basement. Ross her ex-partner, whose only advice to her is run. Her sensei who feel her best help is a puppy with magical runes all over his body. Add on the fact her Uncle has been kidnapped. Along with Ghost and Circe who throw out some nasty wards of protection and you have an interesting story. Did I mention she has a crazy relative after her as well, not to mention another blast from the past? Titus, with all his charms, is being made to help.

[Jo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Right. I'm going to get my major niggle about this book out of the way right now. Although this book says it is number 1 in the series, there is a prequel. And, given that I felt that I had missed out on some world building when I started to read, I would suggest that you read the prequel before reading this book.

That said, this story certainly packs a punch. Action packed from the very beginning, this story arc has betrayal, misdirection, and suspense. But it also has the counterpoint of a young woman testing her strengths, learning to trust and discovering the bonds of friendship and family. And put together, it all worked really well to create a fast paced, engrossing tale.

I am interested to see what the rest of the series brings.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Penelope · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast paced, action packed with the right blend of characters you love and love to hate.

Ava James is being set up and she is determined to find the mystic behind all the destruction and loss of life. With the help of some good 'friends' she saves her Uncle and finds out some interesting details about her family and herself.

This book will keep you hooked from page one, you will not want to put it down and once you finish you will be craving the start of the next book. I can't wait to find out what is in store for Ava and I look forward to her coming into all her powers and more.

[J. Ewbank · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book by Sanchez was a shocker to me. I thought that modern mystics would be a religious kind of mystic, and boy was I surprised. However, the characters, though entirely unknown to me as to their abilities, were interesting and the plot has good against evil. The characters develop during the book and the fights keep you interested and following it. Glad to have read it.

J. Robert Ewbank author "John Wesley, Natural Man, and the Isms" "Wesley's Wars" "To Whom It May Concern" and "Tell Me About the United Methodist Church"

[Lesley Williams · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not my cup of tea I'm afraid and I usually love this type of genre. I was put off initially by the poor quality of the paperback book. I know you shouldn't judge a book by it's cover, but I've been proved wrong before and have found many a gem hidden away. However, this time I was disappointed. The plot itself was good, but it didn't flow quite right and the enjoyment was gone. Sorry. It may be to other peoples liking.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book for free in return for an honest review.
This story about is about a fire elemental that works for an agency that polices elementals. She is accused of committing a crime and must prove her innocence. The action starts on page one and stops just long enough for you to catch your breath before it starts again. This story is well written and keeps your interest the entire story. The villains are amazing. And the heroes can take them down. I am ready for book 2.