Amazon.com: Customer reviews: The Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood And Ash Series Book 3)

Top positive review

A Rollercoaster of a Ride!

Reviewed in the United States on April 20, 2021

The Crown of Gilded Bones, Book 3 of the Blood and Ash series, starts off on a high note of what the heck just happened... and almost never lets up. Picking up right where AKOFAF ends, this book is a rollercoaster of emotion. Secrets are revealed. Betrayals abound. Loyalties are tested. Gods awaken.

The love between Cas and Poppy fed my soul and ripped my heart open, as they learn to navigate their marriage (and all that comes with it) and the truth about who and what Poppy is. I loved the moments of living in between the hard times. And the steam level is off the charts! I can't help but to hope for a long and happy future for these two. They deserve it.

Cas' love for Poppy oozes off the pages. His moments of quiet rage are powerful, but when he loses control in the moments when he is faced with the fear of losing her, his pain is suffocating. There is no doubt that he would walk through fire and to the ends of the earth for her. His loyalty is to Poppy first. Always. And I loved this shift in his mentality. We often think about how Cas saved Poppy, but we forget that she saved him, as well. She gave him a new reason to live, and she brought him out of the shadows.

Poppy really comes into her own in this one, as she grows in her confidence and abilities. Her lineage is mind blowing, and when she truly learns to accept and embrace it, her actions are Cas-level epic. She is a total badass. Her rage? It is like Damon, Roth, and Luc all rolled into one. And I'm so here for it.

There are so many moments of high adrenaline action, plot twists and pain, mixed with moments of living, loving, and laughing. There is a solidness in the friendships that are built. The comraderie between Poppy and the wolven is beautiful and touching, with Kieran and Delano being the best friends and protectors one can have. They offer sound advice, elements of humor, and unconditional loyalty.

JLA has built a fascinating world filled with Gods, deities, mortals, prophecies, ancient blood lines, war, vengeance, destruction, and hope. I just don't know where this will go next, but I'm excited about it!

Forget every theory. Forget everything you know or thought you knew. Forget everything you think you want to happen. Avoid the spoilers. Leave it all outside and just enjoy the experience. And hold on for the ride. You won't be disappointed!

45 people found this helpful

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Too long but good ending

Reviewed in the United States on April 22, 2021

After the big cliffhanger at the end of A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire, I was really looking forward to this book. However, by 400 pages in I was ready to tear my hair out. It's a slog filled with repetition and a lot of journeying around and going nowhere in the plot.
At that point, I was thinking that there's a lot to wrap up and I discovered that there is more book(s) after this (I'm not sure how many). Considering that I would have cut out about 2/3's of this book, I just about had enough of poor Poppy and her 'am I good enough' routine.
I toughed it out and I'm glad I did because the author really redeemed herself with the big cliffhanger ending again. I'm not sure if it's enough to make me continue the series, but it was much better action and plot movement. I wish more was given to Cas to do than have sex with Poppy and tease her about Miss Willa; he seemed to fade into the background in this book which was disappointing to me. I'm not all about THE CHOSEN ONE trope, and it was more than emphasized here. A tight edit cutting out the fat and repetition would have done a lot to make this book better.

197 people found this helpful

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From the United States

Erica C

A Rollercoaster of a Ride!

Reviewed in the United States on April 20, 2021

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45 people found this helpful

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bookish_snippets

Bow down to the Queen!

Reviewed in the United States on April 20, 2021

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𝗛𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝗽𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗲𝗮𝗿 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝘂𝗺𝗯. "𝗜 𝗻𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗸𝗻𝗲𝘄 𝗶𝘁 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀. 𝗧𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗜 𝗰𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲𝗼𝗻𝗲. 𝗕𝘂𝘁 𝗜 𝗱𝗼."

Oh my, this BOOK. I took my sweet time with this one and still kept having to go back and reread to firm everything up in my head. Everything about this book is delicious, like warm, decadent chocolate, and so carefully plotted. I went in with a thousand theories carried over from AKOFAF only to come up short. The ending left me a little dead inside and anticipating book 4 immediately, until then I'll nurse this hangover with some wine.

The Crown of Gilded Bones is incredibly dynamic, which is light on magic but heavy on drama, intrigue, dark secrets, mythology, ROMANCE and amazing world building.

Things I liked about this book:
> My girl Poppy is going through so much *tears*
> I fell in love with Cas even more
> Kieran is just downright awesome
> World building. If AKOFAF was Atlantia 101, this is Atlantia 201
> I love that diary
> the significance of April 20th
> All the spicy scenes. Fang me please!

Things I didn't like:
> too much time spent at certain locations
> a certain destination did not seem plausible when compared to the map
> new info repetitive and lengthy at times

27 people found this helpful

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Nikita Navalkar

12 Things I Love About You

Reviewed in the United States on April 27, 2021

Verified Purchase

Spoilers for the first two books because well if you haven’t read the first two, what are you doing here anyway?

It is impossible to cover all my thoughts and feelings about this book in a measly review, so I’ll be writing an ode to it instead, taking inspiration from a great popular millennial text to do so (come on you know the one). Because just stating what I loved about it is too mainstream. (Note I’m probably going to butcher it because a poet I’m not). Here goes nothing, from my dorky heart to yours:

I hate the stunning world building. And the character development to boot.

I hate Poppy’s strength and fearlessness. And Cas’s unconditional, proud support.

I hate the way she’s incredibly violent. And the way that turns him on.

I hate their scorching chemistry. And their easy, open affection.

I hate Cas’s damn dimples. And how he can read Poppy’s every thought.

I hate the snappy banter. And all the deliciously inappropriate talks.

I hate Cas’s fierce, undying devotion to Poppy. Even more how equally she gives it back.

I hate Kieran’s pure love for Poppy. And his equally intense connection with Cas. And how they have each other’s backs. (Bromance y’all)

I hate my cocky, swoony, endearingly arrogant King. As well my young but wise and brilliant Queen.

I hate that JLA has me by the heartstrings. And that she’ll have all my money too.

I hate that I’m not Poppy. And that I don’t have my own Cas.

But mostly I hate the way I don’t hate any of it. Not even close. Not even a little bit. Not even at all.

Well if you can’t tell, I hate none of it, I in fact love it all (well except that last part, I want my Casserole please). Casteel Hawkethrone Da’Neer and Penellaphe Balfour Da’Neer are the King and Queen of my heart, and they deserve everything. I fudging love them, alone and together, all of their moments precious to me, steamy and soft and funny. Seriously I don’t think anyone has ever loved the way Cas loves his Liessa, but I think Poppy comes close. I am in stunned disbelief, I am wrecked and devastated and exhilarated by this book. I want the next book and the spinoff and every single thing related to this series like a junkie needing their next fix, but I’m still prepared to wait as long as it takes for the magic to unfold. Because every page and the wait for it has been worth it so far.

2 people found this helpful

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Tammy Manning

One of the best books I've read this year!

Reviewed in the United States on April 22, 2021

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“You are the foundation that helps me stand. You are my walls and my roof. My shelter. You are my home.”

“If you think that what I did was a shock, then you need to understand that I will do anything and everything for my wife.” (…)“No risk is too great, nor is anything too sacred. Because she is my everything. There is nothing greater than her, and I do mean nothing.”

Holy ****! This book seriously blew my mind. I stayed up way too late reading because I absolutely could not put the book down and I had to know what happened next. It’s been a few days and I’m still trying to process what I read.

So we pick up right where A Kingdom of Flesh and Fire leaves off and for 7 chapters I was in a constant state of anxiety. There is so much that happens right from the beginning that even trying to describe any of it will give spoilers. And I’m not going to do that so you’re just going to have to read the book to find out what I’m talking about.

I didn’t think that it was possible to love the characters in this book anymore than I already did, Jen proved me wrong. Poppy keeps evolving as a character and really finding out who she is as a person and gaining confidence along the way, all while asking a lot of questions. Cas becomes even more swoon worthy and shows his love and devotion to Poppy above all else. Poppy and Cas have cemented there place as my favorite book couple and seeing them together throughout this book makes me love them so much more, as individuals and as a couple.

This is a fast paced whirlwind of a book that sent my emotions on a rollercoaster ride. I laughed, cried, cussed, yelled, cheered, gasped, and then did it all over again. I honestly cannot remember any book that has made me cry so hard that I had to stop reading because I couldn’t see the page anymore. I was legit sobbing. I seriously think that Jen broke me and I don’t think that will be remedied until the next book. And I’m ok with that because this was the best book that Jen has written.

“I love you Penellaphe. You. Your fierce heart, your intelligence and strength. I love your endless capacity for kindness. I love your acceptance of me. Your understanding. I’m in love with you, and I will be in love with you when I take my last breath and then beyond the Vale.”

“When you asked me to kiss you under the willow? Deep down, I knew then that I would give you anything you asked for. I still will. Whatever you want,” (…)”You can have it. Anything. Everything. You can have it all. I will make sure of it.”

3 people found this helpful

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Cekiah

Best book of 2021

Reviewed in the United States on April 20, 2021

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This book was intense from start to finish. It was so action packed that it had me on the edge of my seat the whole time. I couldn’t put this book down and the next book immediately. This is the only series I have ever read where each book just gets better and better. Poppy and Hawke have some invested in their lives I spend too much time thinking about them. I love to see Poppy grow into this amazing powerful confident women throughout this book and series. I also love how Hawke is their as her support system and equal in this book. This is by far the best book I have read in 2021. It was so amazing and if your doubting starting this don’t you won’t regret reading it. This is my first fantasy series and I’m so glad this book has made me want to read more fantasy’s books. Thank you Jennifer L. Armentrout for giving us this wonderful world and series. I can’t wait to read the next book!

15 people found this helpful

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Sarah Roupp

The plot thickens

Reviewed in the United States on April 28, 2021

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"A Crown of Guilded Bones," by Jennifer L. Armentrout is an amazing continuation of the Blood and Ash series! Book 3 of this series and the story just keeps evolving.

After being attacked at Chamber of Nyktos, Poppy is standing before those who are bowing before her. They're claiming she's their Queen and the wolven are protecting HER. Not long after, Poppy is captured and made powerless and helpless among a group who call themselves the true guardians of Atlantia. Of course trouble ensues and the plot thickens a little at a time throughout the rest of the monster of a book.

Obviously, I acquired this book because I absolutely loved the first book and second book. I preordered the kindle version and a hardback copy and the day it came out, I also ordered the audio book so I could listen while doing chores.

Rating on a scale of 1 to 10 (10 being exceptional), this is how I rank the following aspects of "A Crown of Guilded Bones":
- Quality of writing: 10/10
- Pace: 9/10
- Plot development: 10/10
- Characters: 10/10
- Enjoyability: 10/10
- Ease of Reading: 10/10
In addition, Jennifer continues her phenomenal world-building in this book and, as I'm sure many others would agree, I would LOVE to see and/or live in Saion's Cove or Eveamon. There are plot twists galore in this installment of the series with many WTF moments. It was definitely enjoyable to read and difficult to put down. I still like that this book is only in Poppy's POV. There is definitely lots more funny banter between characters and several scenes that made me straight up belly-laugh. Yes, there are spicy scenes but they were not overdone. I'm truly looking forward to the next book and I'm also looking forward to the spin-off series (about Nyktos and his consort) which the first book, "A Shadow in the Ember", of that series is expected to release on October 19th this year.

I would recommend this book (and series) to those who enjoy paranormal romance, fantasy, action and adventure. Overall, I rate this book 5 out of 5 stars! ☆☆☆☆☆

3 people found this helpful

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C.N.

I have more questions than Poppy after book three!

Reviewed in the United States on April 24, 2021

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First, I'm a big fan of this series & anxiously anticipated this 3rd installment that I mistook for a trilogy but I was wrong, there's more so I was expecting an end & that's definitely not what this is! Great news for anyone wanting more of Poppy & Casteel, but I've spent months waiting, devoured the book in days, & now I'm right back to waiting... Again!
Ultimately, I'm really happy this story isn't over yet. I was hoping for more now though so perhaps I'm still processing that shock.

Overall enjoyed the book. It was equal parts predictable & surprise elements. Witty banter, steamy showers, romantic mushy love, a bit less fighting & let brutality than previous books, so much internal dialog (maybe that's not new though). The sex seemed to overshadow the war. I can't believe I'm writing this, but I think it's worth saying... this one may have given too much space to the sex & relationship. Don't get me wrong, I'm here for it, I love the hot parts, but some scenes felt repetitive. Feels like a missed opportunity to expand on some exciting moments/interactions that could have taken the story even further. Some seemingly important things felt brief & unsatisfactory while other less exciting moments felt stretched to max.

Totally worth the read. It's more of the world I love but I want more of the action & history, more story between the tangled sheets.! Of course I want the steamy showers, voyeuristic behaviors, however, I also need the substance. What I really need the most is the next book!
So just to be clear, I still loved it & will return for the next Blood & Ash !

2 people found this helpful

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Em Dorsey ~A Darlin Doll ~

5 “Bow before your Queen” stars!!!

Reviewed in the United States on April 23, 2021

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“Remember what you are. Fearless.”

I have loved Poppy in the previous books but in this one she truly shined and has turned into the bada$$ mofo she is meant to be. Cas is so supportive, protective and showers her with the unconditional love that she deserves. I loved the fact that Poppy always considers Cas her equal and not greater or not less then her. The steam factor between them was on fire!!!

“You are the foundation that helps me stand. You are my walls and my roof. My shelter. You are my home.”

This book is action packed and gives us a lot of information that answers some lingering questions but also provides us with more questions. That ending!!!!! What a great introduction to A SHADOW IN THE EMBER and the next book in the Blood and Ash series. I for one cannot wait to get my greedy hands on them!!!

“We became twin flames, burning bright and uncontrollable, lost to the fire.”

5 “Bow before your Queen” stars!!!

2 people found this helpful

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Melissa Wagner

I continue to be surprised.

Reviewed in the United States on September 20, 2021

Verified Purchase

“‘You’re safe here,’ he told me as he placed the dagger beside my hand. ‘But just in case, if anyone comes in here, stab first and ask questions later. You should be familiar with that mentality.’
‘Why does everyone act like I run around stabbing people?’ Casteel stared back at me and then looked pointedly at his chest.
‘Whatever,’ I muttered. ‘You deserved it.’
‘I did.’ He grinned as he placed a knee on the bed and lowered the upper half of his body over mine. ‘I’ll be right back.’”

The Crown of Gilded Bones by Jennifer L. Armentrout is the third book of the From Blood and Ash series, you should definitely read the other books of the series before reading this one. Poppy and Casteel are finally in Alantia, but it’s not the safe place to land that Cas had hoped for. Their lives are threatened, and it’s clear that not everyone is happy about the power Poppy possessed or the potential for her to become queen. They also still have to figure out how to rescue their brothers, and try to prevent war.

Each book of this series is better than the last. I love watching this story unfold, and the author continues to surprise me. I am hopelessly in love with Poppy, Cas, and Kieran, and can’t wait to see where the story goes next. I will warn you that the book ends on an intense cliffhanger. Like wanting to through your book across the room level cliffhanger. But I still give the book a million zillion stars, because of how intensely I am drawn into this world.

“‘I don’t think I’ve told you this. I didn’t get the chance yet. When you asked me to kiss you under the willow? Deep down, I knew then that I would give you anything you asked for. I still will. Whatever you want,’ he promised roughly, his fingers tangling in my hair. ‘You can have it. Anything. Everything. You can have it all. I will make sure of it.’”

Helpful

Laura Winter

Okay, that ending? Holy gods.

Reviewed in the United States on July 5, 2021

Verified Purchase

The bad:

The entire time I was reading this book, I was convinced it was going to be a 4 star review. Armentrout has a tendency in this series to end chapters in the middle of conversations rather than important or natural ends to scenes, which is incredibly frustrating. I get it - as an author you want people unable to put the book down, reading 'just one more chapter' - but it made reading multiple-chapter-long conversations extremely exhausting.

I felt like most of this book was a lot of extra words to pad the page count. Because, you know, you're already three books in so you can afford to drag it out because you're already successful. Heavy worldbuilding is still happening three books in, but it came as frustratingly long conversations between Poppy and someone. She'd go off on a few paragraphs 'thinking' of questions and what the consequences would be, and then ask those questions and get really long answers of some things she might have already thought of. Repetitive and UNNECESSARY word count padding.

I contemplated a 3 star review at many points in this book. The writing was just... meh, compared to the previous two books. There were several instances of typos, wrong words, and just really poor conversation dynamics. It felt super forced and stiff, and once again adding conversations/responses/declarations when they were really unnecessary. Again, an attempt at word count padding. This book, while the story was perfectly executed, felt like it was rushed to get published and did not go through as many edits/reviews as it needed.

The good:

Obviously, I ended up giving a 5 star review. Partly for these things, but mostly for what I'll finish this review with.

We started out with a BANG. It picks up right where we left off (which after a short break between reading book 2 and 3, I did have to go back and reread the last chapters so I didn't forget what happened) and that was an EXPLOSIVE ending to book 2. That meant the start here was just as intense. A little confusing, but intense nonetheless.

The steam was once again amazing. Poppy and Casteel have some very inappropriate times to be heated, but that's also why we love it. Their relationship is by far the best part of this series (raise your hand if you've discovered a knife kink through reading this series). I will never not love their banter.

The story continues to get better as secrets are uncovered, plots become clearer, and the betrayals/discoveries/friendships are always good sparks. I can't say any of the plot points really came as massive 'surprises' or twists, but they were still executed quite brilliantly and made for an enjoyable read.

Here's where I decided that all of those bad things were background noise and this book deserved a 5 star review. THE LAST CHAPTER. I kept thinking, 'hmm, this book should have been over a few chapters ago... what sort of bang are you going to give us?', because by now I've come to expect a massive, mic-drop-intense ending to each book. AND HOLY GODS IT WAS EVERYTHING.

Anyway, 5 stars for that last chapter, and it carries such a heavy weight, it overpowered my negative feelings toward the rushed book.

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The Crown of Gilded Bones (Blood And Ash Series Book 3)

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