Book: Risen From Ash by Samantha Vargas
Reviewed by Jill's Twisted Spicy Reads
Rating: 4.5/5
Risen From Ash is a powerful beginning to the Guardians of Alistile series, filled with magic, rebellion, hidden truths, and characters forced to question everything they were raised to believe.
Kienna has spent her life believing she was destined to serve and protect River Storm. When she discovers the king’s secret, the world she trusted begins to crumble. I enjoyed watching her confront those lies and decide whether she would remain the obedient weapon the king created or become the flame capable of challenging his empire.
The complicated relationships and divided loyalties added emotional depth to the story. The Guardians are carrying their own wounds while discovering that the world beyond their home is nothing like they were taught. Their journey explores identity, freedom, trust, found family, and the courage it takes to choose your own path.
The detailed worldbuilding and intriguing magic drew me into Alistile, while the growing threat of war kept the tension building. I especially appreciated that Kienna’s journey wasn’t easy or straightforward. She had to face difficult truths about the people she trusted, including the king who claimed to love her in his own way.
“The king loved her in his own way. Why couldn’t that be enough?”
That quote captures so much of the emotional conflict in this story. Love without freedom, truth, or respect may not be the kind of love someone should accept.
Risen From Ash earned 4.5 stars from me. It is an exciting, emotional introduction to an ongoing epic fantasy series, and I’m looking forward to continuing the Guardians’ journey in The Ashborn.