Kingdom of Claw

I’m torn. It’s certainly an interesting story that kept me hooked, with great characters, but it was also painfully slow, with a lot of “filler”.

It ends on a completely open-ended note, offering no closure whatsoever.

I’m especially frustrated with the final twist. Seriously, another Tamlin? Rurik is even more similar: turning into a beast, locking doors, the whole thing. I was loving this character and expected more positive development between him and Saga, so his actions at the end were very disappointing. I’m genuinely sad that Saga continues to be ana bird in a cage after everything. It left me feeling pretty pessimistic.

The Good:

• The introduction of Saga.

• The slow-burn romance between Silla and Rey.

• The magic system and world-building.

The Bad:

• The endless Jonas POV chapters—I just didn’t want to be in his head anymore. His chapters were repetitive and dragged the pace down.

• Not a single appearance from the other Bloodaxe Crew characters. That felt like a letdown.

• Very few answers and way too many new questions. How many books is this series going to have?

• The graphic and often grotesque descriptions were a bit much for me—borderline disgusting at times.

• Almost every male character is either evil, abusive, or both.

Honestly, I’m actually relieved the third book isn’t out yet, because I don’ think I would have the energy to keep reading this story. I don’t know if I will continue.

Road of Bones: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Kingdom of Claw: ⭐️⭐️⭐️

After reading the series' first book, I wasn't sure I wanted to continue. I wasn't a huge fan of Silla or the turn of events regarding Jonas in The Road of Bones. HOWEVER, I'm so, so glad I did! This book is a solid 4.25. The Ashen series could easily turn out to be a top series for me, depending on the next three books to be released.

I'll start with the world-building, first and foremost. Set in a world inspired by Iceland and Norse mythology, the author builds a rich culture and history of the people of Íseldur, crafted through all the details. From the geography and the unique languages to the little offerings and prayers, to the slow piecing together of the world history and its Gods, it's a world easily envisioned and made real. I also love the various creatures (especially the little spirits) and the unique expressions of Galdra (magic) in the characters. Considering the scope of the second book, the potential for this world as it continues to expand and encompass other lands and cultures has me incredibly excited.

The writing. I'm not sure what else to say about the writing, other than it couldn't have been done any better. It's mature. It's purposeful. There's no silly fluff. Never once was I confused. The various POVs make things even more interesting. It's a beautiful, easy reading experience. Please read this book. Lol.

Now, the characters. The second book is certainly on the slower side, but this is a strength as it pertains to Silla's development. In the first book, I found her to be irritating and unlikeable, even if I could understand some of her actions. But in the second book, she faces her many faults and slowly grows out of her naivety. It's not a matter of suddenly being the strongest, best female character like, ever, who has the coolest power in the land and can defeat everyone because she is simply the best (as in many fantasy books which obviously I cannot stand). Rather, the entirety of the second book seemed dedicated to her growth, as we see Silla work incredibly hard to increase her skills and strength and her Galdra, all while trying to face her guilt and fear head-on. You can't help but be proud of her. And I just know she is going to kick-ass in the next installments, not because she is the fated "best of the best", but because she's actually worked for it.

Man, then there's Rey. Winters does such an incredible job with her MMCs. And the romance? 10/10. It's a slow burn, resulting in a relationship founded on something other than Insta-lust. What a power couple. I also enjoyed discovering his backstory, meeting the fam in his hometown, and watching him slowly come to accept his own pain and open up. Gotta love Rey.

And then there's Saga. I loved the introduction to Saga's character, who, although she has many struggles of her own, slowly comes into her own strength too. I also really love the sister bond that forms and how they become each other's saving grace in many ways. That being said, I hope that going forward Winters will be able to differentiate the two sisters more, as I found a lot of similarities between them and how they act. We'll see! Finally, Kass (what don't we love about Kass?) and his customs and culture and magic are an exciting new addition to this world, especially regarding the development of the plot.

I could keep going on and on and on. But I need to end somewhere, and here's as good as any. I eagerly and impatiently await the next books, while crying a little inside as I come to terms with the fact of waiting potentially years to learn the ending of this seriously awesome series. Lol.

I'm sure it'll be worth the wait.