In Patrick Mullens and Beau Bown's "Flame to Ash," Evelyn, raised by her enigmatic mentor Klara, confronts a mysterious illness plaguing her logging town. Trained in magic, Evelyn and a small band of trusted friends embark on a perilous journey to uncover the sinister source. Their investigation leads them from hidden ruins to treacherous mountains, revealing both present dangers and a complex history interwoven with human greed and unimaginable horrors. Through boisterous camaraderie and shared hardship, their diverse skills—from sorcery to meticulous observation—are tested as they fight to survive a perfect storm of malice and monstrous threats. "Flame to Ash" is a thrilling adventure filled with magic, mystery, and unwavering friendship.
Review Flame to Ash
Wow, "Flame to Ash" completely blew me away! I haven't been this engrossed in a fantasy novel since… well, since I was probably a kid! It’s that good. I'm usually a multi-book reader, juggling different genres and styles, but this one? This one sucked me in and wouldn't let go. I devoured chapters like they were candy, completely neglecting everything else until I finished.
The world-building is simply spectacular. Mullens and Bown crafted a universe that feels both familiar and utterly unique. It's got all the classic fantasy elements I adore: magical creatures both terrifying and captivating, necromancers weaving dark spells, demons lurking in the shadows, and even some delightfully villainous coke-sniffing baddies (who knew that would be so compelling?). But it goes beyond the tropes. The authors weave in esoteric knowledge, intriguing glimpses into ancient texts, and a fascinating exploration of humanity's relationship with nature – its creation and destruction. The way they blend elements of science and magic, particularly in the depiction of the "mancers" and their abilities, is clever and inventive. It felt like a fresh take on a beloved genre.
The characters are equally captivating. I loved the diverse cast and the authors' ability to switch perspectives seamlessly. Each character felt real, flawed, and wonderfully complex. Following their intertwined journeys, watching their relationships evolve, from the fiery passion of some romances to the deep platonic bonds forged in the face of danger, was a treat. Seriously, the 100+ year-old witch is my new role model. She's a badass! The age range of romantic relationships was also refreshing and well-represented.
The pacing is superb. There's never a dull moment. The plot twists and turns, keeping you constantly guessing. And those battle scenes? Prepare to gasp! They're intense, visceral, and incredibly well-described. The authors really know how to build suspense and deliver impactful moments. I found myself actually shouting at the book during some of the more thrilling sequences. The descriptive language is another high point. The Lovecraftian monsters are genuinely horrifying in their detailed descriptions, and the natural world is brought to life with breathtaking vividness. The forest, the mountains – they felt tangible, real, almost sacred. The deep reverence for nature shining through the writing was incredibly moving.
The humor is another unexpected delight. Sprinkled throughout the serious moments are clever lines and witty observations about life that made me chuckle out loud. It's a perfect balance, never detracting from the overall story but adding a welcome layer of levity. It's a testament to the authors' skill that they could make me both terrified and amused within the space of a few pages.
"Flame to Ash" is more than just a fantasy adventure; it's a story about friendship, courage, and the enduring power of hope in the face of unimaginable darkness. It's a story that stayed with me long after I finished reading, and I can't wait to see what Patrick Mullens and Beau Bown create next. Highly, highly recommended.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 1.22 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 486
- Publication date: 2024
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