What a sequel! Ashes of Gold is action-packed, encouraging, heartwarming, and funny in all the right moments. I loved continuing Rue's story and getting to know a lot more about Ghizon and the history of her magical side. We meet many new awesome characters in this sequel, as well as getting more of the characters we love from book 1. I especially loved seeing more of Bri, who still has a lot to learn but at the end of the day is a real "ride or death" friend. Ashes of Gold is a book about love – loving ourselves, others, and where we come from – as well as learning to trust yourself. Rue's story is one that I know will encourage many Black kids who need the reminder that they don't need to be anyone but themselves to be loved and worthy. If you loved Wings of Ebony, you'll love the strong finale to this duology.

I was sad to see this series end. J Elle writes this book so well that you feel like the characters are your long lost friends. In my case, #RueismyCousin . This is not up for debate. In Ashes of Gold the title comes to life in a very real way. Rue struggles to really believe in herself and who she is, until she is reminded of from whom she came. There are so many Rue's in real life who need to really absorb this book. Fantasy makes some of the heaviest things/topics easier to digest. Because honestly, if you know, you know. Rue's growth, leadership, and love develops right before your eyes. The world building in Ashes is even more descriptive and beautiful in Ashes, and you learn more about the people of Ghizon. Also to note, I will always love Ms. Leola and what she represents. Most of us in the community know someone like her. If we are really blessed, we know a Rue too! Vivid and righteous ending. I am a super fan of this work.

Ashes of Gold is so good! I love that the setting was largely different from Wings of Ebony, there was magic galore, and Rue continues to be an awesome protagonist that you can't help but root for. We are introduced to some new characters, while the oh-so-tough debate of which couple to ship continues, This series has such an important message for young people and I cannot recommend it enough!

Described as “The Hate You Give” meets “Wonder Woman” in a “Black Panther” world, Ashes of Gold is an epic conclusion to the Wings of Ebony duology! Filled with action, intrigue, betrayal, and so much heart, Rue’s journey continues as she works to reclaim the magic that was stolen, and I enjoyed every heart-pounding minute of it.

The world-building throughout this duology is incredible! It’s detailed, vivid, and immersive, and I found each new setting easy to visualize. Though very different from our world, Ghizon is also quite similar. For example, throughout her journey, Rue sees the detrimental effects of corruption, racism, war, social inequities, and the consuming thirst for power. This adds to her already fierce determination to bring balance back and bring the right people to justice. I found many of the non-magical issues presented to be very relatable and relevant.

Rue is a fantastic protagonist! Tenacious and determined, she fights for what she believes in and proves that you can be both fierce and vulnerable. Rue is loyal and courageous, and she has a huge heart. I love how she learns from her mistakes and always tries to do and be better while still staying true to herself. Rue is quite hard on herself, and her failures weigh heavily on her. Self-doubt, fear, insecurity, and guilt prove difficult obstacles for Rue to face as Rue learns more about the world of Ghizon, its magic, its connection to her home, and her connection to it all.

The secondary characters in the story are intriguing and dynamically developed as well. From potential love interests to friends to Rue’s younger sister and more, the supporting characters are compelling and layered. Rue learns a lot from the people in her life, both good and bad, and they definitely influence her feelings and actions. I like the introduction of some new characters and how they affect the dynamics already in place. Rue quickly realizes that there are only a few people she can implicitly trust, as secrets, lies, and betrayal are brought to the surface.

The story also highlights the power of strong women and the bonds of sisterhood, which is fantastic! Rue is surrounded by strong, independent women in both Ghizon and her home, and I think she learns a lot from the women in her life. And oh my word, the twists and turns! This story is intense! There were a few shocks that I totally didn’t see coming, and, I admit, a couple of them broke my heart. Luckily, other parts of the story are heart-warming and hopeful, which made for a well-balanced and well-paced read.

If you enjoyed Wings of Ebony, you are going to love Ashes of Gold. It’s an intense and engrossing conclusion to the duology with amazing characters, unique magic, and strong messages about racism, community, family, friendship, and what it means to be a good leader. Special thanks to Millner Books, Books Forward, and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.

Whoooooooa, was this a RIDE. I felt as though we left the last book in a pretty nice place, and this one just blew the roof off. Everything was going wrong for Rue and she finds her home turning into a war zone. I could never figure who to trust and there were some TWISTY TWISTS that I didn't see coming. It got chaotic in a good way, though there could've been one less subplot without taking away much from the book. Get ready for Ghizon y'all, because damn.

*Thank you to Denene Millner and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for my honest review*

I really enjoyed this series and the unique plot that the author created. I flew through this book in one sitting because I could not wait to see what would happen. This is a great read and I highly recommend.