Book Review: An Ember in the Ashes by Sabaa Tahir

Publisher: Razorbill/Penguin

Publication Date: April 28, 2015

Genre: Fantasy

Pages: 446

Summary: Set in a world inspired by the Roman Empire, this fantasy debut by Sabaa Tahir features two characters from different worlds, each fighting for what is most important to them and learning what they are willing to do to risk it all for family and freedom. Laia is a Scholar. She is driven by love for her family to join the Resistance in exchange for their help. Elias is a Mask. He is a soldier struggling to reconcile his moral compass with his duty. As Laia and Elias face obstacles and tests of character in their individual journeys, fate keeps throwing them together forcing them to realize that they will need each other to fulfill their destinies.

Review:

We love when an author chooses to tell a story from multiple points of view. In An Ember in the Ashes, the story alternates perspectives between Laia and Elias. Each voice is distinct and flows smoothly from chapter to chapter. It was a real treat to read some of their shared moments from both of their perspectives. 

Tahir’s characters are complex, intriguing, and compelling. It is Laia’s bravery and resolve that make her a standout character. Elias experiences a lot of internal conflict but it is his strength and good heart that draws you to him. With each chapter we became more emotionally invested in their story. There is also a great cast of supporting characters who enhance the narrative and a villain you will love to hate. 

The novel is divided into three parts. Tahir takes her time to set up the plot, relate information on character background, and describe the world. We have to admit that we struggled through this as we were anticipating the first meeting between Laia and Elias. It isn’t until their paths cross in part two that our interest really piqued and we began to enjoy the story. Once the competition begins, it is non stop action all the way to the end. 

One of the standout features of An Ember in the Ashes are the many adult and dark themes explored. This is why at times it didn’t feel like we were reading a YA novel. Tahir’s characters  grapple with ideas of loyalty, bravery, and sacrifice The protagonists face dilemmas of morality versus duty, conscience vs obedience, and destiny versus choice. Additionally, Tahir has created an extremely dark and oppressive world for her characters and she doesn’t shy away from showing some of the circumstances they go through. 

There is no doubt that An Ember in the Ashes is a dark, fantasy story, but it also has a little bit of romance. Tahir teases us just enough with all the romantic possibilities (love square!) but ultimately our hearts belong to Laia and Elias. The spark that ignites during their first meeting turns into a slow burn for the rest of their interactions. We expect more intense and swoon worthy moments between the two in the sequel.

This is a definite must read for any book nerd! An Ember in the Ashes is a dramatic, high stakes, engaging story with strong characters and an ending that will leave you wanting more. 

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars