A review by bzliz
Ash Princess by Laura Sebastian
challenging
dark
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Theodosia is the princess of a conquered country, kept in her stolen castle and abused by the Kaiser who invaded her lands and enslaved her people. Her every move is watched and she suffers greatly for every act of rebellion anyone dares make. After being forced to take a life herself, she learns to fight back and begins planning her own rebellion and escape for the good of her remaining people.
Readers should beware that any glimpses of hope are few and far between as Theo plays a game she barely knows the rules to while everyone else wins by cheating. Like so many YA series, there are two more books so it’s not surprising truly how little is accomplished in this one. My biggest complaint is the same I have with so many other similar books- these characters fall in love so easily for no reason at all! I know the romance is a big draw for readers but it would be nice to see some of these protagonists stand on their own.
Readers should beware that any glimpses of hope are few and far between as Theo plays a game she barely knows the rules to while everyone else wins by cheating. Like so many YA series, there are two more books so it’s not surprising truly how little is accomplished in this one. My biggest complaint is the same I have with so many other similar books- these characters fall in love so easily for no reason at all! I know the romance is a big draw for readers but it would be nice to see some of these protagonists stand on their own.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Murder, Sexual harassment, Violence, Confinement, Death of parent, Torture, Blood, Physical abuse, War, Child abuse, Slavery, Grief, Injury/Injury detail, Toxic friendship, Emotional abuse, and Death