Books Like...
A Heart of Blood and Ashes follows the story of Yvenne, a strong-willed and resilient woman from a line of warrior queens who has been locked away in a tower by her cruel father. When Maddek, seeking vengeance for his parents' murders, kidnaps Yvenne, their initial enmity turns into a complex alliance as they plan to take down her father and claim her family's throne. The book intricately weaves together elements of fantasy, romance, and revenge, with a focus on the evolving relationship between Yvenne and Maddek. The writing style is described as balancing world-building, character development, and a compelling storyline that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
If you liked A Heart of Blood and Ashes, here are the top 100 books to read next:
- #1
Save:In "The Winter King" by C.L. Wilson, Princess Khamsin is used as leverage and forced to marry the conquering King of Wintercraig, Wynter, in a tale of epic fantasy romance. Despite initial mistrust and political machinations, the two protagonists, Khamsin and Wynter, find themselves drawn to each other in a world filled with magic, betrayals, and secrets. As they navigate their relationship and the challenges they face, including the threat of the Ice Heart, they must learn to trust each other and work together to ensure the survival of their kingdom.
The book is praised for its intricate world-building, engaging characters, and steamy romance, with a plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Wilson weaves together elements of fantasy, romance, and action in a fast-paced story that is both captivating and heartwarming, showcasing themes of loyalty, bravery, and overcoming past traumas.
The news swept through the royal palace of Summerlea on an icy wind. Smiles froze on suddenly frightened faces. Laughter—so ebulliently prevalent even after the past three years of bitter war and hard... - #2
Save:In 'A Promise of Fire' by Amanda Bouchet, readers are introduced to Catalia Cat Fisa, a soothsayer disguised in a traveling circus, hiding from her dangerous destiny. When Griffin, a warlord from the magic-deprived south, recognizes her as the Kingmaker, a woman with the power to divine truth through lies, their fates become intertwined. The book weaves a tale of power struggles, romance, and secrets, set in a fantasy world with Greek Gods and magic, where Cat's mysterious past and hidden powers come to light as she navigates her complex relationship with Griffin and faces the challenges of her heritage.
I pluck at my crimson tunic, tenting the lightweight linen away from my sticky skin. The southern Sintan climate isn’t my worst nightmare, but it sometimes ranks pretty high, right along with the stif... - #3
Save:'Warprize' by Elizabeth Vaughan is a fantasy romance novel that follows the story of Xylara, a Royal Princess and master healer, who defies her brother to treat the war prisoners from the enemy Firelanders. As part of a peace treaty, she is given to Keir, the Warlord of the Firelanders, as the Warprize. The book explores the clash of cultures between the two peoples and how Xylara and Keir find common ground to establish lasting peace. The plot delves into themes of love, acceptance, and understanding, set in a richly imagined world where characters navigate through political intrigue and personal relationships.
The writing style of 'Warprize' is described as engaging, with detailed worldbuilding and well-developed characters. The book combines elements of romance, fantasy, and cultural exploration, creating a storyline that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. Readers appreciate the unique blend of different cultures, the growth of relationships, and the underlying themes of acceptance and mutual respect portrayed throughout the novel.
“Goddess, no.” I dropped the knife, pressed my hands against his stomach, into the blood, and threw my full weight onto the wound. Biting my lip, I pressed harder still, desperate to stop the bleeding... - #4
Save:'The Bridge Kingdom' by Danielle L. Jensen is a fantasy novel set in a unique world where kingdoms vie for power by controlling a crucial bridge. The story follows Lara, raised by her father to be an assassin and tasked with destroying the kingdom of Ithicana. However, as Lara navigates deception, loyalty, and love, she begins to question her beliefs and alliances. The plot revolves around Lara's complex relationship with Aren, the King of Ithicana, and their journey from enemies to lovers amidst political intrigue and personal growth. The writing style is described as vivid, with clear descriptions that bring the fantasy world to life and evoke strong emotions in readers.
Lara rested her elbows on the low sandstone wall, her eyes fixed on the glowing sun descending over the distant mountain peaks, nothing between here and there but scorching sand dunes, scorpions, and ... - #5
Save:'The Golden Dynasty' by Kristen Ashley is a captivating story set in a fantasy world where Circe Quinn is unexpectedly transported and finds herself in a primitive society where men hunt for brides. Captured by Dax Lahn, the King of Korwahk, Circe navigates through cultural differences and language barriers to form a unique bond with him. The book explores themes of romance, adventure, and magic, drawing readers into a world filled with complex characters and emotional turmoil. Kristen Ashley's writing style intricately weaves together intense relationships, challenging situations, and vivid world-building, creating a compelling narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
There were enormous, extremely muscled men standing guard every four feet around the corral wearing nothing but pants made of hide, their upper bodies painted with black and white streaks. And the ins... - #6
Save:'Bound to the Battle God' follows the journey of Faith, a smart and practical woman who accidentally gets sucked into a portal to another realm and ends up being sold as a sacrifice to the God of War. However, things take a surprising turn when the God of War, Aron, asks for a volunteer to be his mortal anchor, leading Faith to step up. Together, Faith and Aron embark on a twisty and convoluted road to help Aron ascend back to his rightful place in the pantheon of gods. The story is set in a fantasy medieval-style landscape where the gods have been cast out of their version of heaven and must battle for dominance before ascending back to the aether.
The author, Ruby Dixon, weaves a tale filled with epic fantasy battles, complex characters, and a slow-burn romance between Faith and Aron. is praised for its phenomenal world-building, mix of mythologies, and fully fleshed-out characters, making it a captivating and engaging read that keeps readers hooked till the end.
I wake up in the middle of the night, alert for no reason at all. My ears strain, trying to make out sound. There's only the distant rumble of thunder, an oncoming storm. I sit up and listen for voice... - #7
Save:'Pathfinder's Way' in the series 'The Broken Lands' by T.A. White follows the story of Shea, a talented Pathfinder in a complex and dangerous world. Shea is posted to a village where she faces sexism and mistrust from the elders, leading to a series of events that bring her in contact with Fallon, the Trateri Warlord. Their tumultuous courtship unfolds against the backdrop of a society divided between different factions and facing various challenges, including battles, betrayals, and personal struggles. intricately weaves together elements of adventure, romance, and world-building, gradually revealing the layers of the characters and the unique setting created by the author.
Author T.A. White skillfully crafts a narrative that delves into Shea's character development, her interactions with Fallon, and the overarching conflicts within the world of 'The Broken Lands'. The story unfolds with a blend of action-packed sequences, intriguing world-building, and a slow-burn romance between the strong-willed Shea and the warlord Fallon. The writing style of the book is praised for its ability to gradually unveil the complexities of the characters, the dynamics between different factions, and the underlying themes of loyalty, courage, and personal growth.
Maybe if they hadn’t stopped several timesalready or if they had moved with a purpose, but as it stood thegroup had probably traveled less than two miles. Half of thatnearly vertical. At this pace, it... - #8
Save:'Lord of the Fading Lands' by C.L. Wilson is a fantasy novel set in the city of Celieria, where the Feyreisen, King of the Fey, is searching for a woman who can save the magical winged cats called tairen. Little does he know that this woman is his soul mate, already betrothed to another. The story weaves romance, fantasy, and court intrigue as the Fey king, Rain Tairen Soul, and Ellysetta navigate political and magical challenges to be together. is praised for its detailed world-building, vibrant characters, and the slow-burn romance between the main characters.
Rain Tairen Soul, King of the Fey, could no longer deny the truth. Nor, despite all his vast power and centuries of trying, could he figure a way to save either the creatures that were his soul-kin or... - #9
Save:In "Captive of the Horde King" by Zoey Draven, readers are taken on a thrilling journey to a new planet where two different cultures collide as Luna, a strong and vulnerable heroine, finds herself becoming the queen to a brooding and devoted Horde King. The story unfolds from Luna's point of view, allowing readers to experience her struggles and triumphs as she navigates through a world with unfamiliar customs and language. The plot is filled with misunderstandings, conflicts, and budding romance as Luna and the Horde King try to learn and love each other amidst the challenges they face, all while laying the groundwork for potential future stories in the series.
A horde had passed directly next to our village, but didn’t step foot inside. The memory of them, though I’d been young, was forever imprinted on my mind. From afar, the Dakkari horde had seemed like ... - #10
Save:'Reign & Ruin' is a romantic fantasy novel set in a Middle Eastern-inspired world, where political intrigue, magic, and court maneuvering play central roles. The story follows Naime, the heir to the Tamar Sultanate, who must navigate treacherous political waters to save her kingdom from impending war by forming an alliance with the neighboring nation of Sarkum. Alongside her is Makram, a powerful death mage from Sarkum, who defies his own ruler to support Naime's cause. As they work together to balance power and magic, a forbidden romance blossoms between them, complicating their already dangerous mission. The book is praised for its intricate world-building, well-developed characters, and a blend of romance, magic, and political intrigue that keeps readers engaged from beginning to end.
THE GALLERY THAT LED from the main palace to the Council Hall had never stretched so long. Perhaps, if the Wheel favored her, this was as close as Naime would ever come to understanding what it felt l...
