⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ FIVE STAR REVIEW

Reviewed by Jamie Michele for Readers' Favorite

Angel of Ashes:

Angel of Ashes by Erika Kathryn follows Audie, a reincarnation of Evangeline, the last Phoenix Angel. After being raised in isolation by August, she discovers her abilities as she is introduced to the wider celestial world. Audie meets the young Cave and Logos, who warn her of Dare Demons attacking Earth, and together they travel through the extraordinary realms like the Tunnel of Delulu and Windmill Farm. Jupiter recruits Audie to lead an Angel Army alongside other young angels: Gabi, Pancia, Talihad, Luce, Cathetal, Darel, Yahel, BenNez, and Vesta. Audie trains with them in elemental and combat skills. These are hugely important as Audie is thrust into a string of massive threats, missions to rescue imprisoned angels and fairies, and a fight against the greatest threat of all at Doom Dwelling.

Erika Kathryn's Angel of Ashes is a wonderful introduction to the Angel Archives fantasy adventure series. I like that while Audie is the main character, she is not our sole point of view angel, and through Kathryn's perfectly executed use of both the first and third person perspectives, we get a real sense of who each of the angels is—with a special shout-out to Gabi, my fellow Twinkie stress eater. The landscapes are exceptional, from lush forests, icy peaks, and even the swamps, which, alongside fantastical beings like loyal lions to transformative butterflies, really lean into Kathryn's inventiveness. Audie's golden wings and unique abilities glow brightly against the more terrifying brushes with danger, be it Metatron or the Frost Fairy. Overall, Angel of Ashes is a hero's journey with many of your heroes, and I'm excited to follow Audie and the Angel Army into the next book. Very highly recommended.

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⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ FIVE STAR REVIEW

Reviewed by Jefto Pierre for Readers' Favorite

Angel of Ashes:

If you're searching for a YA adventure that shows an unforgettable fight between good and evil, you'll want to read this book!

The Angel Archives by Erika Kathryn is the story of Audie, a Phoenix Angel teen girl born from a golden egg laid by her mother. Regrettably, her mother, Evangeline, succumbs to an attack by malicious forces before Audie's birth. August (Audie's human father) decides to raise his daughter hidden away in his bourbon distillery. As such, Audie lives a lonely and secluded life. Yet she develops the heart of an adventurer. Audie forms a friendship with Cave, a boy from her village. In time, she is swept into a series of events that bring her closer to understanding her angelic heritage. Along the way, she discovers that evil spirits threaten Heaven and Earth, so she must help the Angel Army, a group of young angels, protect both realms. Is she up for the task?

Erika Kathryn's Angel of Ashes is an epic young adult fantasy with captivating worldbuilding and magical lore. The emotions of the characters and the immersive storyline make this novel a satisfying read. The story balances themes of friendship, bravery, self discovery, and finding the courage to confront evil even in the face of hardship. Audie's story arc, from innocent child to her quest with the Angel Army, grabbed my attention from beginning to end. It will especially impress readers who enjoy fantasy built on action, drama, and the search for truth. The general character development is well-portrayed and fits the storyline perfectly. Each person in Audie's life has clear motives and shows personal growth that make them feel real and relatable.