First of all, this cover bugs me. Number one, It's irksome when the person on the cover does not have the same physical traits that the character it's about does. And number two, for some reason this dude reminds me of some Miami vice detective from decades ago with his slicked back hair and huge sunglasses. In other words, trying too hard to be cool. Fortunately, I knew what to expect going into this so it wasn't going to turn me off.

I went back and forth between 3 and 4 stars on this a lot as I was reading. I couldn't wait to get Asher's book when he made an appearance in Maccus's because I thought he'd be super fun to read about. And he was, so total 4 stars. What I didn't expect was for him to be such an emotional sap when he found his mate. I hate it when the over powered, brutal male becomes a love struck fool, so 3 stars. In the end, I went up because, duh, Maccus shows up quite a bit here and I love that guy.

I really liked how everything went down in this book because you can never really figure out who the bad guy setting everybody up really was. Even in the end, there's still a part of it that isn't figured out. We also meet some more vampires and there was one that I really ended up liking. Probably one of the most important and interesting parts of this book was learning all about Asher's past and what makes him more powerful than any other vampire in existence.

Everything starts when Asher gets an email from a source that he can't track about a place where a vampire is going to be killing humans. If nothing else, he goes to check it out simply because he's curious. While watching this ridiculous vampire go on about being Vlad, Asher's attention gets snagged by a mortal woman who also shows up. After a horrific event in Jo's past, she has dedicated her life to ridding the world of vampires. It just so happens that she also received the very same email that Asher did, only she won't wait in the shadows to strike.

Intrigued by this hunter, Asher pretends to also be one in order for the two of them to continue working together to try to find out why they were both sent there. Not long after, another mysterious email to both of them exposes Asher's to nature. And despite Jo's intense hatred for vampires, she still can't resist her attraction to Asher.

Basically what we get going forward is these two following any lead they can in order to figure out who keeps trying to throw them together, and who is out to kill Jo. Maccus and Morrigan make quite a few appearances and not by Maccus's choice. But boy did I love it when he was around. Gawd, that man's attitude and power is so damn hot! I also really respected Asher for keeping Maccus's secrets from Jo despite what it could cost him. Honestly though, she had no business acting like that about what Maccus was and Asher not telling her. Anyway. When they're not out chasing a lead or a suspicious email, these two get to know each other more and obviously fall for each other more. Which leads to those sappy moments of Asher's that had me rolling my eyes...a lot.

We get to meet another of the Brotherhood, Bjorn, when Asher is pretty much taunted into a trap and a contract gets posted for Jo's life on their own website. His appearance is abrupt, violent, and over rather quickly. But we learn of his own tragic past and I can't help but think his book will be next.

I'm not sure how I feel about the end. I was honestly surprised when we find out who at least one of the culprits was because I never even thought it possible. But we don't learn who actually set all of this in motion. And I'm on the fence about what happens with Jo. I mean, it's cool and all, but also kind of just makes it all too easy.

I'm loving this series! This group is fun to read with hot men, strong women and stories that keep you reading until you reach the end of the book. Vampire matched with a vampire hunter, shouldn't work but of course it does and it's because he's not fully what he seems. This story is full of vampire hunting, of course, and someone who's (nicely put) causing trouble. With surprises and old and new characters joining them it makes for a must read story. The next story will definitely be interesting if it's about who I hope.

I didn’t realize this was the third book! So I went back and one clicked the first two caught up on the back stories and absolutely fell in love with this series!! N.J. has made a top author for me in paranormal. This book brings us Asher the ancient vampire and Jo the vampire hunter. They are tricked into going to see a vampire claiming to be Vlad. Curiosity from Asher has him following her where ever she goes and Jo thinking he is human. Events fall into place and Jo finds out who he really is and other supernatural. The chemistry between them is off the charts and deep. This is a great story for those who loves paranormal, great HH and lots of action. Can’t wait for the next book and definitely a one click purchase for me!

This is the third look into the Forgotten Brotherhood. We get our third badass woman squaring off with our latest brother. Its a great addition to the series.

4 stars

This was truly amazing. It reminds me of trueblood and lucifer... loved it!
Jo and Asher were FIRE!!!! The amazing chemistry between our main characters was so freaking good! This is exactly what I want in my paranormal book.
This action packed story wasn't something I was expecting but it was so much fun to read!!
Fully recommended!!

Thank you so much to the publisher and Netgalley for the amazing chance to read this book.

Absolutely riveting, addictive and completely entertaining, I love the Forgotten Brotherhood. I loved the characters so much, I love the fact we see so familiar faces popping up here too. It’s just wonderful paranormal romance with fantastic characters, great plot, wonderful Chemistry, world building that is inviting and I love the mythology twisted into this world , the fantastic strong kick ass characters, I don’t think there’s anything I don’t love, hence the 5 stars

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion

Wow! This latest instalment of the Forgotten Brotherhood does not disappoint! I love the mythology woven into this story and the appearance some of these figures is fun and exciting. Plus we get check-ins from Maccus and Morrigan, to name a few. The story moves fast and is very entertaining. And the steam is of so good.

This time around we meet Asher. One of the oldest living vampires created by an Egyptian goddess after his family was killed by vampires. Since then it's been his job to hunt and kill rogue vampires. His name strikes fear among vampires thought to be only a myth to keep young vamps in line.

Jo Radcliff is a vampire hunter. Asher finds himself very much attracted to her. She's smart, gorgeous and talented. She reluctantly agrees to work with him in order to figure out who sent them anonymous emails but now someone is trying to kill Jo. Using the Brotherhood to go after her and counting on Asher to protect her at all cost.

Thanks so much to Entangled Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.

I am loving this series! All the paranormal romance fun - gods, werewolves, vampires and shifters. I love how Walters has set up a long term mystery throughout the series, but resolved enough in each stand alone novel that I am both sated and hungry for more.

Jo and Asher meet when they each get an email telling them where a vampire plans to kill people. Jo is a hunter and Asher is the boogeyman for all vampires. I loved the relationship between them. They’re both kick-ass people and both have a history that should pit them against each other, but instead they are perfect together.

I can’t wait to read what comes next in this series - bring on Bjorn ❤️ (please)

Not being a super big fan of the previous book in this series I still took a chance with Burning Ash. No regrets or anything, but I’m sad to say that this story just didn’t change my feelings on this series whatsoever.

The writing in Burning Ash had its ways of giving various and complex descriptions of characters, feelings and even places. However, I just couldn’t help but feel like this didn’t translate to the actual characters. For while they were described as brave, compassionate and any other adjective this didn’t really show in their personalities. To me they were too generic and lacking life along with differencing and distinctive characterization. The only one that to me actually stood out was Maccus, mainly for his grumpiness and reserved behavior. And he wasn’t even in the story that much, being that Jo and Asher were the main characters. Don’t get me wrong, they were okay as main characters for the most part, but they just weren’t relatable however much the story tried to make them out to be. As a matter of fact, this is where I found it the most unrealistic.

Jo was described as a human hunting vampires for a living, being brave, clever and because of her past relied on no one but herself. While this is an intriguing description of a character I did not find this intriguing woman in the book. Instead I found a woman constantly being rescued and dependent on Asher, claiming she had trust issues and can handle herself but contradicts this with her actions, or rather inactions. This along with how surprisingly little she actually knew about vampires made it difficult to believe she was a badass hunter who managed survived this long on her own with the job she had. Meanwhile Asher did not have much about him that stood out. Everything about him was about his complete love for Jo and not much else. Since the second he met her there was an insta-love and the rest of the story was him only thinking or acting out in regards of her. Even to a point that it actually bordered on obsession with him stalking her and breaking into her home. This understandably made me not that excited about the romance nor the plot, which brings me to the next issue.

If anyone asked me to explain the plot of this story I would have a hard time doing so. Because it felt more like the story was run by characters coming and going rather than having an actual plot. There was no clear cut planning or composition put into the story from what I could tell, but instead it was reliable on characters attacking/seeking out Jo and Asher, which brought the story further and further until the end where, surprise surprise, once again a “character” shows up solves the issue with the snap of her fingers without motive or explanation and then goes on her merry way. In short, instead of progressing the main characters and having them struggle to the end, the surroundings where what was progressing around them while Jo and Asher stood still, getting the job done for them.

Like I said in the beginning I do not regret reading this book. It was an okay read in that it did have some action, drama and some characters that I liked (Maccus for example). For me the bad just outweighed the good which you can probably tell from this review. I give Burning Ash three stars.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Burning Ash is the third book in N.J. Walters Forgotten Brotherhood series and if you haven’t read this author, what are you waiting for? Stunning covers are the first thing that draw attention, but the stories within are nothing less than exceptional. Ms Walters had a unique talent which transfers beautifully to her well-written storylines and the captivating and intriguing characters that are portrayed too. I can’t recommend this series highly enough, and if action-packed, thrilling and exceedingly sexy Vamps get your blood pumping; then this is definitely the story for you! I’m thoroughly hooked on this series and can’t wait for the next fast-paced, exciting instalment.

4.5 Stars

This is the third book in the series. I love the world building and premise of the whole series. I was a bit concerned when Vampire meets Vampire Hunter. But once all the secrets were revealed, these two were a perfect match.

Jo and Asher are being set up by someone. It isn't clear what the motive is. The story takes a few twists and we have lots of action in this one. I love that Asher decides to take his time a bit with Jo. He knows she may bolt if all is revealed too soon. Loved these two together!

We get a sneak at the couple from book 1--Maccus and Morrigan--great side characters for this story. I can't wait to see who we get to meet next!

This one was ok. I liked the other books better but this was still not bad. The hero lacked something but I can't figure out what. The story was decent but I felt myself drifting and losing interest. Hopefully the next will be better.

I love a good enemies to lovers trope in my romance, and this one was set up to be brilliant! Ancient vampire overlord versus vampire hunter extraordinaire - I was really excited for some slow-burn build up and some snarky banter! Unfortunately, I felt like these two just fell in love way too quick! They got over their differences so easily, the tension didn't have a chance to build. It was instant chemistry and not what I would expect from the premise. I think the writing style was solid, though. The overarching premise of the secret email correspondence just didn't grip me enough to stay invested.

Thank you to netgalley for providing a digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

The Forgotten Brotherhood are back! Yay! I've been waiting for the next in this series and now we have... Ash.

Asher, one of the oldest vampires on Earth, is sent a mysterious untraceable email about a young vampire on a rampage. And while he normally lets the Vampire Council take care of this sort of thing, he is intrigued by his inability to track down the sender of the email, something he would have previously thought impossible. When he arrives he finds baby vamp posing as none other than Vlad the Impaler (a poser because Asher, umm, took care of that... problem a few hundred years ago). he also finds an enchanting and deadly beauty that is more than capable of dispatching baby vamp, but even more striking, she is human. And while Ash would normally let everything play out without his aid, he finds himself instinctually wanting to protect this fierce little human.

The Brotherhood is under attack and whoever is behind it wants Ash and Jo together. Ash desperately wants to protect her but if this little vampire slayer finds out he's actually a vampire, will she stay? Who is behind these emails? Why is there a contract out on Jo's head? Who is the real target? And, why, oh why does he feel alive and young again when he's with her?

Burning Ash was fun, fast-paced, action-packed, and smexy. While I wouldn't say the chemistry was on fire, you did feel the attraction between the two. Plus, I'm just a huge sucker when it comes to paranormal romances with instant/fated attractions and long-lived immortals suddenly 'awakening' to primal instincts. Yeah, can't help it. Gets me every time.

The whole anonymous bad-guy reveal aspect was a bit underwhelming and the whole- I'm dating an immortal but I'm human- sitch resolution was a smidge Deus Ex Machina but not so contrived that it was completely out of left field.

All in all, I really enjoyed this latest in the Forgotten Brotherhood. There are still so many questions to be answered, like, who is behind the emails, plus, I am sooo down to find out more about our Werewolf Forgotten Brother. Ohhh, intrigue.

*ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*

4.5 - "I’m on to you…" Stars!

Another great addition to the Forgotten Brotherhood series, with book three giving us intriguing Vampire Asher’s story.

The vampire and the hunter-not exactly a storybook couple…

I loved the fact that the author paired him up with sassy vampire hunter Jo Radcliffe, opposites attract and all that, and even though Asher epitomises everything Jo believes to be wrong with the world, killing him is the last thing she wants to do, well most of the time anyways!

"Let me help you…"

I have to say that the cover for Burning Ash does not do Asher or the author’s description of him with his long blond hair justice. Which really is a huge shame, because the cover for Arctic Bite (the previous book in the series) as well as the hero in that book; Alexei Medvedev are two of my favourite things from my 2020 reading. The cover fits with its predecessors but it definitely doesn’t fit with the character it’s supposed to represent.

She’d been cold and alone for so very long…

Whinge over the cover aside though, I have to say N.J. nailed another storyline again,with plenty of intrigue and drama, going so far as including the Egyptian gods and goddesses this time. Plenty of sexy times, lots of banter, and I loved that Maccus and Morrigan (book one) played a part in this story, at points making me laugh due to Maccus’ ornery nature towards anyone but his woman.

"It’s not over…"

The introduction of Were-wolf shifter Bjorn also leaves the reader intrigued because you know there is definitely a story there and hopefully it will be forthcoming very soon. Another great read, and I cannot wait for more!

If you love very old vampires, spunky vampire hunters, a sarcastic fallen angel, a former hell's bounty hunter, a berserker werewolf, Lucifer, a goddess and want danger, mystery, with a very steamy yet sweet romance added into the mix then you will love BURNING ASH.

Annetta Sweetko, reviewer for Fresh Fiction

Complete review may be found at:https://freshfiction.com/review.php?id=71716

***Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Expected release date September 21, 2020.***

🌟🌟🌟🌟

Another wonderful paranormal fantasy / romance about the Forgotten Brotherhood by N.J. Walters that allowed me to mentally escape our current reality, if only for a short time (I REALLY need to go back and read the first book 😊). Can't wait for the next book!

This is the first book that I’ve read by N.J. Walters. Yes, you read that correctly. I picked up a book from a new to me author that is the third book in a new series. Stick around long enough and you’ll discover that this is a not so rare trend with me. *sigh* The good news is that you can definitely read Burning Ash as a stand alone and not be totally lost, but if you’re like me, you will finish it wanting to know how the series started – which I plan to do – especially before I pick up the next book. Just in case anyone’s curious, the series begins with Fury Unleashed (Maccus & Morrigan – who play a role in Burning Ash) and continues with Arctic Bite (Alexei & Cassie – who are just mentioned in Burning Ash). Now that we’ve gotten my much too frequently repeated confession out of the way…

Asher and Jo were amazing together. The fact that Asher was a vampire and Jo was a vampire hunter with a personal vendetta against ALL vampires was bound to cause issues, but their attraction was hard to ignore. Besides, Asher wasn’t an average vampire and Jo wasn’t an average hunter. There was also the issue of someone trying to destroy them both – working together made more sense than working apart. Asher didn’t have as much trouble working with Jo, he was actually determined to protect her from anyone and anything. The attraction for him was pure instinct at first, but it turned in to much more the longer they were together.

There was much more to this story than the budding romance between vampire and hunter. Teaming with the allusive Maccus and his mate, Morrigan, added another layer to the story. There was also mystery, action and a lot of action to keep the pages turning. Much more than I expected. One mystery was solved by the end of Burning Ash, but not another one that affects all the Forgotten Brotherhood and their mates. I’m not sure what comes next, but I’m sure that it’s not over. That’s okay though, I obviously have some catching up… or backtracking to do. 😉

Wow, I devoured this book!!!! It may seem you are getting another story of a vampire and vampire hunter in love, but this is SO MUCH MORE! Asher’s background is nearly legendary, he is legendary, and what he feels for Jo reaches well beyond all that. Jo thinks she knows how the world works, but she quickly learns so knows so little, but her past has prepared her for this future. A deep connection, heat off the charts, lots of fun and wit, and a new *cough* friend you just know is in for some upcoming adventure. Love the pace, loved the story, loved the characters, loved it all!

How can they work together when they are at each end of the ladder...

Oh my!
« Sigh! »
I just fell in love again, Asher is just ... Asher!
He is just perfect.
I haven’t read Maccus’ tale but it is easy to follow this one too.
But I am even more curious about him.

Asher and Jo are two sides of a coin, the hunter and the prey, the decoy and the target ...
Asher despite his long lived life and his loneliness is no bitter man, I loved how he often tries to liven and lift the mood/atmosphere by some jokes or witty repartees.
He is the bogeyman for all vampires when their council can solve a case, he is the one called to put an end to it. For milleniums, he hunted the vampires turned rogue, until he joined the brotherhood, to hunt the monsters at the top of the foodchain, a monster needs a monster to be put down.
Yet it is a lonely existence, but he accepted the weight of his mission as he was made to be thus.
Until he meets the one woman who awakens a feeling he thought buried with his human self.

Jo has been made a vampire hunter by a trauma from her past, since she never stopped to hunt them but also never once questioned her way. With Asher, she will have to reflect on herself, think about what she truly wants and where she wish to go. Retrospectively, she lives one day at a time, with no other prospect than her next mission. She is a survivor who lost her way and lives on the edges only driven by the revenge’s need.

Outside the mystery behind the emails and who’s behind them, it was fun to see them interact with the couple from the first book, from the icy Maccus to his cheerful significant half, and I am quite curious about the Viking Werewolf.

On a special note, all the covers of this series are awesome but it is a pity it does not match the hero’s description, he has long blond hair and is “pretty”!

A 5 stars for this fun and action packed tale with a swoon worthy hero.

I was granted an advance copy by the publisher Entangled, here is my true and unbiased opinion.