Kingdom of Ash and Soot (The Order of the Crystal Daggers, #1) by C. S. Johnson Book Review

Book Description (via Goodreads): “I want to be free.” The words came rushing out of me before I could think through their implications and consequences. “There are two things you need to know about yourself if you want to be free-what you stand for, and what you stand against.” Lady Penelope held up her hands, brandishing a pair of daggers that had been hidden in her skirts.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review. I have given Kingdom of Ash and Soot by C. S. Johnson three out of five stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️

I really enjoyed exploring the world from this book it was very creative and full of mystery. One of the things I enjoyed most about this book was that it was set in Prague which funnily enough I started writing this book review on Thursday when I was flying home from Prague back to London from a Christmas city break away with friends. From reading this book and visiting Prague itself, I was able to imagine the world better from seeing the sights I saw in Prague which were the same as the ones mentioned in the book.

I found the main character, Eleanora, to be likeable but quite annoying and naïve at times throughout the book too. The majority of the time I need to have a strong main character or even character growth in a book otherwise I find it very difficult to connect and to enjoy the story that I’m reading. On the other hand, I really enjoyed reading about her relationship between her and her brother, Ben. Their relationship felt natural with squabbling and joking around elements. For the romance side of the book, I would’ve loved to have read a more developed and slow burner kind of romance as I felt that was lacking towards the characters involved in the romantic part of the book.

I really enjoyed Johnson’s writing throughout the book and would love to find out what happens in the second book!

I might have to revisit this book as it took me such a long time to read it mainly due to a busy work and social schedule over November – December. Which meant that I didn’t spend half as much of my time that I would’ve liked to for reading.

Have you read Kingdom of Ash and Soot? Let me know in the comments below.

Happy reading,

Claire 📚