𝓡𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 5/5 ⭐️

𝓢𝓹𝓲𝓬𝓮 1/5 🌶️

An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir is the first book in the series. After Laia’s brother is arrested for treason she is forced to become a slave to infiltrate the Empire. Elias is the school’s finest soldier but all he wants is to be free. Soon they realize their destined are connected and their choices will change the fate of the empire. 

Absolutely fantastic! This is a YA fantasy but it did not read that way to me. I loved that the romance took a back burner. It wasn’t the main plot it was just in the background which really let the actual storyline shine which was amazing!

Deadly trials, forbidden romance, love triangle ish, political intrigue, oppressive empire, and so much more. This book really had so much in it but it was easy to follow. I loved the dual POV and getting both their thoughts. The character development, morally gray decisions, and the adventure really kept you hooked. The one thing I will say was that it could be kind of clunky in some areas but it didn’t take away from the book for me. 

I finished it in 6 hours. Didn’t put it down to read another book, I had to finish it. 

I cannot wait to start the next book. I do not know why I do not see more about this book around because it really is under hyped! I actually had not heard of it until it was on a poll for a book club I am in. 

I would recommend this to those who enjoy YA fantasy, romantic subplot, political intrigue, deadly trials, and espionage.